Parish Consultation Pastors consult Parish Pastoral Councils in order to learn from them, and parishioners are motivated by a desire to serve. What does history teach about consultation?
Motive for Councils	Communion First. Concern for mission should not endanger communion. Not a Democracy. Important issues need not be decided simply by popular vote. Appreciative Leadership. Good pastors appreciate the faith which unites councillors. Competence Councils need to have more common sense than technical expertise.
Historical Lessons	Socrates. Like pastors, he knew he didn't know everything. The Historical Jesus. His kingdom, parables, and disciples, can all assist the council. The Council of Jerusalem. It discussed significant matters--and so should we. Prudence. Thomas Aquinas called it a search for knowledge about practical matters.
Council and Staff	Chicago Consultation. In 1989, Chicago's plan for consultation was unclear about the measures of success. Fear of Councils. Pastors at times do not consult councils because of staff/councillor tensions. Council No Figurehead. If pastors intend to consult, let them give their councils clear direction and respect. Practical vs. Theoretical. Pastoral Councils seek practical wisdom and Finance Councils have special expertise.

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