I don’t know a single priest who likes to talk about money from the pulpit. Heck, I don’t even like to write about it. However, there are times when it is necessary to ask for your generous stewardship. And there are other times when I need to say a profound word of thanks to you all for responding so generously to the needs of our parish, our community and our Archdiocese.
If you are reading these words on Sunday morning, this year’s Sponsors Dinner Dance is now a wonderful memory. Thanks to all who worked so hard and for so many hours to make it possible. As you know, the Dinner Dance began as a way to help meet operating expenses for the parish. Then there was a period of time when it provided for bigger ‘wish list’ kind of items for the school and parish. With the slowing of the economy and the decline in birth rates and subsequent decline in school enrollment, these last years have found it returning to its original role – helping to meet the operational expenses of our school. (It does continue to provide some wonderful ‘wish list’ funds for the teachers and administration.) Your participation and support continue to make this a ‘night of nights’ for the parish community. Thanks for all the ways you (will) have been generous to our parish and school community.
We also continue the Archdiocesan Annual Catholic Appeal this weekend. You know how much it has done for the Newman Center and Fr. Vic’s deaf ministry in the past. Did you also know that this past year, the Appeal provided $1,400 for tuition subsidy for our grade school teachers to continue their study of the faith through St. Paul VI classes, $1,100 for Teachers professional growth fund, and $1,250 to parishioners through the Catholic Family Tuition Assistance program. Several engaged couples participated in the marriage preparation programs sponsored by the Office of Laity and Family Life – also made possible by funding from the ACA.
Finally, I am waiting for approval for our submitted budget from the Archdiocese for the coming school year before I can offer contracts to our teachers. I am hoping the approval comes long before you read this, but if not, keep that process in your prayers…