STRUCTURE OF THE POLISH NATIONAL CATHOLIC CHURCH
Church matters are dealt with on three levels:
THE WHOLE CHURCH
● GENERAL SYNOD, convened every 4 years, discusses Church matters and interprets religious teachings, select bishops candidates and establishes Church policy, law and discipline.
● SPECIAL SYNODS are called when necessary.
● THE SUPREME COUNCIL meets annually to review Church work and to administer all business that concerns the whole Church.
● THE PRIME BISHOP is the chief executive of the Church. He consecrates bishops, convenes synods, presides at the Supreme Council, controls Church publications and discipline in dioceses.
● DIOCESAN SYNOD occurs within 2 years after the General Synod to enact laws pertinent to the diocese.
● DIOCESAN COUNCIL administers business of the diocese.
● BISHOPS appoint priests, presides at Diocesan councils, visit parishes, and confer sacraments.
● SENIORS are appointed by the bishop to oversee parish business as instructed by the bishop.
● THE PASTOR is appointed by the bishop to guide parish members in the Faith, organize the Church School and administer parish business with concurrence of the Parish Committee.
● PARISH MEETINGS are held every year to elect committee members, to call for actions necessary to parish welfare, review parish reports, etc. Special meetings may also be called as needed.
● PARISH COMMITTEE is elected by the parish. At least nine members serve to assist the pastor, fulfill parish and synodal resolutions, keep records, etc.