DIOCESE—There are currently openings on the Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) for a lay representative from the deaneries of DeKalb, Elgin, Freeport, Rockford and Sterling and also three lay openings to represent young adult Catholics (single or married people in their late teens, twenties or thirties). The deanery boundaries may be identified by consulting the diocesan map at http://www.rockforddiocese.org/about-us/map-of-the-diocese/
Prospective members may nominate themselves or others for three-year terms beginning with the November 2026 meeting.
The Council addresses matters of pastoral concern that Bishop David Malloy raises. He may also invite the Council itself to surface matters of pastoral concern.
The criteria for serving on the DPC include being a practicing Catholic, in good standing in the Church and someone who has shown commitment in a parish. The candidate should possess good judgment, be comfortable in a group setting, and be able to appreciate the wide spectrum of ministries and services that the diocese provides.
DPC members serve a three-year term, beginning with the November 7 meeting. This term may be renewed once. The representatives are expected to meet twice each year at the Diocesan Administration Center in Rockford and may also meet at special meetings called by the bishop.
Prospective members may submit a nomination by contacting the appropriate dean of their deanery:
DeKalb: Rev. Robert Gonnella
Elgin: Msgr. Daniel Deutsch
Freeport: Rev. Peter Snieg
Rockford: Rev. Brian Grady
Sterling: Rev. John Evans
Nominations must be made in writing and sent by postal mail or email by August 15, 2026. Candidates should list their current and past involvement in Church life and explain in their own words why they wish to be a part of the DPC.
For questions regarding the nomination process, please contact Hunter Nikolai at the Diocese of Rockford at 815-387-3373 or [email protected].
A link to contact information for the deans may be found at http://www.rockforddiocese.org/priests
