Journey in Faith

Letter to the Faithful

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As your archbishop – and as someone who grew up in this archdiocese – I am deeply moved by the faith, courage, and hope I see in you as we continue our Journey in Faith. This is a Spirit-led invitation to renewal, vitality, and growth, and together we are discerning how God is calling us forward.

Last fall, more than 22,000 of you across the Archdiocese of Dubuque shared their reflections through the Disciple Maker Index. Along with important demographic and sacramental data, this input has helped us form several proposed models for future parish groupings. These are not final decisions – they are starting points, designed to spark prayer, listening, and dialogue.

Watch Archbishop Zinkula’s Video

Now, the next step begins: Regional Meetings will soon take place in every region of our archdiocese.

At these gatherings, you will:

● Learn more about the rationale, process, and timeline for Journey in Faith.

● Reflect on the importance of prayer and synodal listening in this process.

● Review proposed pastorate models for your area.

● Share your insights, questions, and hopes online at dbqjourneyinfaith.org .

I urge you to take part. These sessions are opportunities not only to receive information, but also to help shape the future of our parishes for the next 25+ years. There are 34 September Regional Journey in Faith Information Sessions from which to choose. Each is held in a parish church and is scheduled for three hours. You should attend a meeting held in your Regional Planning Area (RPA). The overall information will be the same at each meeting; however, the proposed pastorate models that are explained will be specific to your RPA. In order to assist us in our planning, we ask that parishioners RSVP using https://tinyurl.com/JIFSeptSignUp

If you are unable to attend in person, please explore the resources on our website, including maps, videos, and opportunities for written feedback.

I know that conversations about parish life and change can be difficult. My own home parish was once merged into a neighboring parish, so I understand the sense of loss this can bring. And yet, I believe with all my heart that this journey is worth it – because it can re-energize our parishes, draw back our children and grandchildren, and strengthen our mission to proclaim the Gospel.

Please join me in this important next step of Journey in Faith. Let’s be honest, courageous, hopeful, and faithful, trusting that the same Christ who walked with the disciples on the road to Emmaus is walking with us now.

May God bless you, and may God bless the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

Walking with you on this Journey in Faith,

Archbishop Thomas Zinkula

Archbishop of Dubuque