As we continue working closely with our beta testers and engaging in conversations with parishes and dioceses, we’re discovering just how transformative CaDRIS can be—not just as a sacramental record-keeping tool, but as a vehicle for meaningful connection within the Catholic Church.
One such conversation sparked a particularly powerful idea: the concept of a “Welcome Wagon” for new parishioners.
I was speaking recently with a priest who shared a concern that echoes across many parishes: his community had lost around 400 families since the start of COVID-19. While not entirely surprising—given how the pandemic prompted many to reassess where they live and how they engage with their faith—it was what he said next that truly struck me.
He knew where many of those families had moved. But there was no mechanism to transfer them to their new parish or diocese. No handoff. No warm welcome waiting on the other end.
That’s where the idea of a “Welcome Wagon” was born.
What if parishes could formally transfer parishioners who relocate, notifying the receiving parish or diocese and enabling a proactive outreach to these families? What if moving to a new place didn’t mean falling off the Church’s radar, but instead opened the door to a personalized, intentional welcome into a new faith community?
With CaDRIS, that’s not only possible—it’s already built into the system.
CaDRIS enables the seamless transfer of family records between parishes and dioceses. It equips receiving communities with the information they need to welcome new parishioners with open arms—before they even walk through the church doors. It’s a shift from reactive to proactive ministry, ensuring fewer Catholics “disappear” from the Church during major life transitions.
Because CaDRIS is more than just a database. It’s a bridge—connecting people, parishes, and the broader Church in ways that are timely, thoughtful, and pastoral. It supports a Church that meets people where they are, accompanying them through every chapter of their spiritual journey.
Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the deep sadness we all feel at the passing of Pope Francis. His leadership touched the lives of millions. As we mourn his loss, we pray with hope and trust that the Holy Spirit will guide the selection of our next Pope—a shepherd ready to lead the Church into a new chapter of grace, renewal, and connection.
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