CHAPTER V. The Pastoral Council

Can.511 In every diocese and to the extent that pastoral circumstances suggest it, a pastoral council is to be

constituted which under the authority of the bishop investigates, considers, and proposes practical conclusions about

those things which pertain to pastoral works in the diocese.

Can.512 §1. A pastoral council consists of members of the Christian faithful who are in full communion with the

Catholic Church—clerics, members of institutes of consecrated life, and especially laity—who are designated in

a manner determined by the diocesan bishop.

§2. The Christian faithful who are designated to a pastoral council are to be selected in such a way that they

truly reflect the entire portion of the people of God which constitutes the diocese, with consideration given to the

different areas of the diocese, social conditions and professions, and the role which they have in the apostolate

whether individually or joined with others.

§3. No one except members of the Christian faithful outstanding in firm faith, good morals, and prudence is

to be designated to a pastoral council.

Can.513 §1. A pastoral council is constituted for a period of time according to the prescripts of the statutes which

are issued by the bishop.

§2. When the see is vacant, a pastoral council ceases.

Can.514 §1. A pastoral council possesses only a consultative vote. It belongs to the diocesan bishop alone to convoke

it according to the needs of the apostolate and to preside over it; it also belongs to him alone to make public what

has been done in the council.

§2. The pastoral council is to be convoked at least once a year.