Message from Our Pastor
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February 28, 2010
Dear Weekend and Daily Parishioners, All of us have been affected this winter due to the historic snowfall in our area. I know it has been difficult getting around and we still have a few more weeks of winter before we can enjoy the alive season of Spring. Due to the great amounts of snow, our snow removal budget has been exceeded. Not in my wildest dreams did I ever think so much snow would fall in our area. The amount spent thus far is $3,850. Also, as a result of the snow, attendance has been down. Due to the excessive snows and the uncertainty of future snows many of you were unable to make it to Mass for two weekends and in some cases three weekends. Masses are held no matter what the conditions, but common sense must be taken before venturing out anytime. If you can't get here because of the weather, you are excused from your Sunday obligation because your intention is not to miss Mass, but to look after the safety and well being of your family during inclement weather. The loss income from those weekends has come close to $13,000. For this fiscal year we are down $24,000, roughly $800 a week. Therefore, in order to continue working with our daily operating budget, I just ask if you could calculate the offertory you would have given on Sundays, as well as weekdays, and truly attempt to make it up. To our weekday parishioners, please know how much we depend on your daily contributions and how much we appreciate your attendance at Mass and your reception of the sacraments of Penance and the Eucharist. You are truly a great example to Saint Patrick's. I know you have expenses and I know they are not going down. I just want to remind you, Saint Patrick's also has the same expenses and they, like yours, are not going down. Many parishioners have enrolled in automated giving by using the Faith Direct program. If you would like to know more about Faith Direct, there is information in back of the church or you can contact Faith Direct toll free at 866-507-8757. I do want to thank you for all your support in the past and look forward to your continued support. Please keep me in your prayers as your pastor and know you are in my daily prayers.
God Bless, |