This listing of priorities is presented by the National Assembly of Women Religious (NAWR) in the Archdiocese of Atlanta.

An important aspect considered in the listing is the financial support presently needed for the proper function of the agency or group.

Throughout the discussion, the increasing awareness on the part of the Church of its role today was considered of vital importance.

Such things as cooperation, willingness and awareness are not measurable, but are vital to the best possible functioning of any apostolate.

Many cooperative ventures with other Church and civic groups could broaden the area of influence and service of the Church.

In every area, a priority would be given to increasing these attitudes and particularly increasing the educational process involved.

Some items do not necessarily demand greater functioning. It is realized that a listing such as the one given here cannot present all the aspects considered.

Great importance was given to the role of communications within the archdiocese as being a significant way to increase the work the Church either is now doing or can do.

No item was considered unimportant. Some items not mentioned were either seen to be included in another area or did not reach the awareness of the group.

There is no intention that this listing is exhaustive or even complete, but was seen as the present view of the group in response to the needs evidenced at this time.

It is felt that items listed at the top are ones in need of increased resources as funds are made available. Items listed lower down the list, although also able to use increased resources, did not seem as immediate or did not affect as large a group of people.

The priorities listed here remain very much in dialogue. Participation in this dialogue would be welcome. Reactions and responses should be directed to Sister Eileen Murray, GNSH, delegate to NAWR, in care of Christ the King Convent.

1 -- Adult Religious Education

This is a very powerful means of reaching Catholics in the archdiocese and continuing the educational process in the Church today. Although the process would center around religious education, there are many resulting outgrowths from this which can greatly benefit the Church and the Atlanta area as a while. The involvement of the adult Catholic is being increasingly more highly valued. People already involved can continue their educational growth and others can be made aware of opportunities and needs today. Although there has been an increase in this program through the archdiocese and in many parishes there is great need for more programs and greater participation. This type program needs to be increased in the archdiocese either through archdiocesan or parish levels, as judged most effective.

2 -- Religious Education

A primary role of the Church is seen in this educational process. Valuable work is already being done in this area and it is essential for the continued growth and strengthening of the Church that these be continued and increased.

3 -- Urban Affairs

The Church must continue to increase its influence in many areas other than specifically religious ones. Issues of poverty and race continue to be problematic, calling for greater leadership and resources. The Church needs to be significantly represented in the courts and legislature. Labor relations demand attention and well-trained and informed personnel.

4 -- Education

This refers specifically to the school system within the archdiocese. Although many schools are becoming self-supporting, others need support to function. As tuition rates increase, scholarship funds are more and more needed to allow all students the opportunity of education within the Catholic system. The dual system is seen as of great value, particularly where the education available in the parochial system is innovative and making significant contributions within the field of education.

5 -- Family Services

There are many dimensions in this work, and it is very important to provide services to families in need of counseling or assistance. Much of this must be done through a Church agency, at least in its initial phases. The problem of the aging in the archdiocese is in need of increased attention, and parishes are frequently in need of assistance in handling problems of families they serve.

6 -- Campus Ministry

The age group served through this ministry does not seem to be included in either adult education or religious education. Within the archdiocese there are many colleges and junior colleges, none of which are affiliated with the Catholic Church, so the Church needs to be able to effectively serve in other ways. It is important that personnel working on the campuses be well-qualified, particularly in counseling.

7 -- Exceptional Children

Many children within the archdiocese are in need of special services not provided in the regular programs in existence. These children must be considered individually and their needs met. Although progress is being made through school cooperation, many needs remain that are not being adequately met.

8 -- Communications

Increased means of education would be available if a good program of communications were available in the archdiocese. Television can be an excellent means of increasing awareness of problems and services available in the Church and the community. Rural areas would benefit from presentations they are not able to attend due to distance or resources. Cooperation with existing Church and civic groups could be increased and increased impact made on the total community. It would seem that a qualified director of such a program would be needed although the existing communications commission could possibly provide impetus in this area.

9 -- Resettlement

There is a continued and growing need to provide assistance for Spanish-speaking people arriving in Atlanta. Parishes should include Spanish-speaking representatives on their boards so that they could continue to incorporate these people in the parish in which they presently reside.