Pfarrgemeinderat

Pfarrgemeinderat (PGR) is the elected lay council of a Catholic parish in German-speaking regions. It is a representative body that articulates the concerns of parishioners and supports the parish priest in planning and organizing parish life, from liturgy and catechesis to social and charitable activities.

Origin and legal basis: The PGR arose from post-Vatican II reforms aimed at strengthening lay participation in church governance. It is elected by the parish community for a fixed term, commonly five years, in many dioceses of Austria, southern Germany and parts of Switzerland. The exact composition and procedures are defined by diocesan statutes and local church law.

Tasks and responsibilities: The PGR advises the pastor on matters of parish life, including liturgy planning, catechesis, youth and family work, and social outreach. It helps develop pastoral programs, coordinates volunteers, and organizes parish events. It may participate in the preparation of budgets and the use of resources, always within the framework of diocesan guidelines. The PGR represents the lay voice of the parish and facilitates communication between parishioners and church authorities. Its decisions are advisory, but the council plays a central role in implementing programs and ensuring broad participation.

Organization: The council is led by a chair elected from among the lay members. The pastor usually has an ex-officio role and participates in meetings. The PGR collaborates with parish commissions or teams dedicated to specific areas such as liturgy, education, or social action.

Relation to the wider church: The PGR connects the parish to diocesan structures, providing input to diocesan consultative bodies and helping to translate diocesan guidelines into local practice, thereby strengthening lay involvement in parish life.