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.
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.
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.
No one except members of the Christian faithful outstanding in firm faith, good morals, and prudence is to be designated to a pastoral council.
A pastoral council is constituted for a period of time according to the prescripts of the statutes which are issued by the bishop.
source: Code of Canon Law:
http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG1104/__P1T.HTM
Lodie Javery, President
Phone: 985-641-8722
Lynette Doby