By Dallas Carter | Special to the Herald

The bishop is looking for six new advisors.

Bishop Larry Silva sent a letter to pastors last month seeking nominations to fill six vacancies on the 16-member Diocesan Pastoral Council, a group of bishop’s consultors who meet with him four times a year.

Needed are lay representatives from leeward Oahu, windward Oahu, Maui, east Big Island and west Big Island, plus a representative of a religious order of men.

Each will serve a three-year term, starting July 1.

Those interested in being on the council are being encouraged to nominate themselves.

On the Diocesan Pastoral Council are 11 lay men and women who represent east Honolulu, west Honolulu, windward Oahu, leeward Oahu, central Oahu, Maui, Molokai/Lanai, Kauai, east Big Island, west Big Island, and youth adults.

Also on the council are two priests, one deacon and a representative each from a male and female religious order.

Members serve staggered three-year terms.

The council advises Bishop Silva on the pastoral mission of the diocese. It helps him keep an ear to parish concerns and it makes recommendations on pastoral priorities.

Nominees are required to have experience in parish leadership, a positive attitude toward the church and the ability to discuss opposing opinions.

Members must be practicing Catholics.

Pastors have nomination guidelines and applications.

Each nominee is asked to submit a resume to his or her pastor or parish administrator. Also required is a letter of recommendation from his or her pastor and a second letter from another person who can support the nominee’s qualifications.

All nominations must be sent to Bishop Silva’s office by April 21. Those selected will be notified by June 15.

Those with questions about the selection process may call Sharon Chiarucci, director of the office for Parish Resources, at 203-6733 or toll-free 1-877-263-8855, ext. 733.

The guidelines are also available on the web at www.catholichawaii.org.