The Bishop and priests of the Diocese are called to serve the people of God. Such collaboration in the pastoral work of the Church requires the regular exchange of ideas, consultation and advice.

In the 1994 Strategic Plan for the Diocese of Oakland there was an accent on the importance of collaboration and planning. The Diocese was clustered into five Regions. The Priest Senate was re-organized to provide representation of clergy from all five Regions. The official body was renamed, The Presbyteral Council.

The Presbyteral Council is advisory to the Bishop on all issues pertaining to parish life and on major issues pertaining to the operation of the Diocese.