The role of the Diocesan Curia is to assist the Bishop in the government of a diocese ‘especially in directing pastoral action, in providing for the administration of the diocese and in exercising judicial power.’ (Canon 469)
“Those priests, religious and lay people who are entrusted with various offices and functions within the Diocese are, each in their own way and according to their own particular vocation, fulfilling their own personal baptismal calling.
However, their ministry and activity are always directed towards collaboration with the Bishop in his role as successor of the apostles and shepherd of those entrusted to his care. Thus, together, they fulfil the calling of all the faithful, to proclaim the gospel and build up the Body of Christ. “ (Lumen Gentium))
The Bishop in administering the Diocese liaises with various bodies under Canon and Civil Law. Under Canon Law, he consults with the Council of Priests, the College of Consultors which in the Diocese of Lancaster is the Cathedral Chapter. The Bishop has delegated certain powers to the Vicars General and the Episcopal Vicars to facilitate daily administration of aspects of Diocesan activities. In Civil Law, the Diocese is a registered charity administered by the Bishop jointly with his fellow-Diocesan Trustees.
The daily work of the central Diocese falls to various individuals, committees, agencies and departments that seek to serve the Diocese in its structural Mission.