A collaborative structure within the Catholic Church, this model brings together multiple individual church communities under a unified pastoral and administrative framework. This consolidation allows for the sharing of resources, clergy, and ministries to better serve the spiritual and communal needs of a wider geographic area. For example, several previously independent churches might now operate under a single leadership team, pooling their financial and human resources.
The implementation of such a framework offers numerous advantages. Shared resources can lead to more efficient use of funds, enabling investment in vital ministries and outreach programs that might be beyond the reach of individual, smaller parishes. This model also facilitates a more coordinated approach to evangelization, faith formation, and social justice initiatives. Historically, these arrangements have been developed in response to changing demographics, declining church attendance in some areas, and a need for more effective stewardship of resources.