Synthesis #1 - What are Our Gifts?
The full PDF report, with individual location syntheses, can be accessed here.
Questions
Question #1: “How have your experiences in our parish (and your experience of the parish’s gifts and charisms) brought you closer to God? What has been the spiritual impact of your participation in our parish?”
Question #2: “If you had to describe the main gifts and charisms of our parish to a newcomer in one sentence, what would you say? What is your favorite part about being a parishioner? What stands out to you as something to be proud of?”
Overall Synthesis
Whatcom County parishioners participated in listening sessions across all locations to share the gifts and charisms of each church. From these conversations, several main themes emerged, each supported by the insights and experiences parishioners generously offered.*
[Phrases and quotes included in this document are paraphrased by the notetaker.]
Spiritual Growth and the Centrality of the Eucharist
Whatcom Catholic parishioners described a deepening of faith and spiritual growth rooted in the Eucharist, prayer, and the sacraments. Parishioners appreciated the presence and guidance of devoted priests, inspiring homilies, and opportunities for worship. Spiritual growth is enhanced through music and the rich traditions of the Catholic faith.
Sacred Heart parishioners described their worship as an orthodoxy, an expression that lifts them toward the divine. They expressed that they wouldn’t be as strong in their faith if it wasn’t for this community.
St Joseph Lynden shared when you come and worship, you will meet Jesus, and you will hear the whole truth at Mass.
St Joseph Ferndale parishioners spoke of feeling the church alive with the Spirit and finding a spiritual family within the community.
Diversity and Cultural Appreciation
Diversity enriches each church community. Many parishioners expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share and learn from varied cultural backgrounds and generations. Many churches highlighted special efforts to welcome and foster multicultural participation.
Assumption’s parishioners emphasized the importance of Mass in Spanish and the unity of diverse cultural and generational groups.
Hispanic participants appreciate the respectful inclusion of Latino traditions such as the celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
St. Anne parishioners value the presence of priests from around the world and the opportunity to learn from their diverse cultures. To build connections and strengthen community, many enjoy gathering for shared potluck meals.
At St Joachim, the blending of Lummi and Euro-American parishioners is a source of strength and authenticity. Parishioners described that hospitality shines through shared meals, drumming, and honoring the elders.
A Deep Sense of Family, Belonging, and Welcome
Many parishioners strive to offer a warm welcome, to connect with newcomers, and to help all experience a genuine sense of friendship and belonging. They hope their churches will be places that everyone can call home. Parishioners also shared gratitude for the blessings of a thriving Assumption Catholic School, a vibrant Viking Catholic community, and active faith formation programs.
St Peter parishioners shared, “the Church is family, we miss each other when we are not here” and “the fellowship from coffee hour provides opportunities to talk to the older generations,” conversations that not only strengthen friendships but also deepen faith.
Similarly, St Joachim parishioners called their church a chosen family rooted in faith and tradition, where elders and youth together embody belonging and unity.
The Hispanic community expressed gratitude for being welcomed and respected and for finding a family in faith, community and brotherhood.
Sacred Heart recognized the importance of the Catholic men and devout priests in their community as making a difference in bringing others closer to Jesus. In addition, others acknowledged a feeling of home and a close-knit family.
St Joseph Ferndale described themselves as a strong family, connecting through prayer chains, coffee hour, and fish fries during Lent. Youth groups added they value connections between younger and older generations which strengthen their encounters with Jesus.
Hospitality, Service, and Living the Gospel
Service and volunteerism are defining qualities. Many parishioners take pride in serving as catechists, ministers, volunteers, and role models for others, especially youth. Acts of charity, community outreach, and mutual support are vital expressions of living the Gospel.
Assumption identified service and participation as key ways to grow in faith, emphasizing opportunities such as altar serving, lectoring, and greeting, among numerous community outreach programs.
Acts of service flow naturally at St Joseph Lynden, the people here are something to be proud of and the gifts that everyone brings to this table.
St Anne highlighted a family legacy of generations of Catholics, especially proud of a priest arising from their community.
St Peter parishioners proudly shared, when something needs to be done, they do it. No exception, describing their small church as one that lives its faith hands-on.
Conclusion
Our listening sessions revealed a faith-filled Catholic community, grounded in hospitality, service, and spiritual growth. While each church has its distinctive strengths and challenges, they are all united by common values and a desire to journey together in hope.