The Parish of Saint Denis established its Pastoral Council from the beginning of this historical Chruch. The Second Vatican Council recommends the establishment of these councils. These councils at once acknowledge the right and duty of Catholics to express their opinions on what pertains to the good of the Church, and the desire of the pastor to acknowledge their wisdom, seek their prudent advice, and in that consultative fashion to share with the people his responsibility for the governance of the parish. This foundation document lays out the broad parameters of successful consultation, without the rigidity of organizational by-laws because it acknowledges that the council is NOT a governing body, but rather a highly valued consultative one.