Annual Report

Dear Parishioners,

When I was growing up, we had seasonal projects assigned to us by our parents. We could work indoors or outdoors as long we got the tasks completed in a timely manner. My favorite was raking leaves because I could be outside and have fun jumping into the piles before finally bagging them and getting them ready for removal. It was always a welcome sight to see the jobs finished.

This year’s annual report is finished. It wasn’t fun, but the information is ready to share. Our financial report can be found on the following page.

There was a large deficit when we looked at the budget versus the actual income. As a result, we made changes to staffing and continue to explore ways to be good stewards of the treasure that you share with us. Regardless of how careful we are; however, we are facing the reality that mass attendance has fallen almost fifty percent (40%). Before the pandemic, we averaged around 550-600 people across the four masses and now with three, we average around 350-375. On a positive note, we are slowly returning to previous high numbers and can see (almost weekly) that more and more people are returning. Our baptism numbers are steady, and we are attracting more people through our Alpha program. We also have begun to work with Salem State and hope to attract students from there to be part of our parish life. The downturn in numbers is, of course, reflected in the weekly offertory. As part of our restructuring, we will shortly announce an increased giving campaign. The parish’s financial life is part of what we do and so we will be asking people to reflect on how they can offer increased support through their time, talent, and treasure.

I am grateful to our Finance Committee and those who have been sharing their treasure and faith with us. We are blessed because several windfalls have come our way, but that is not a sustainable way to operate the parish. In other positive news, we are now receiving rental income from the two empty schools and can see that efforts are beginning to get them ready for occupancy.

The other positive signs we can see are those who have been generously willing to help with projects that will beautify and restore the church. I am grateful to Mr. Stephen Taylor of Toledo, Ohio, and an anonymous donor for their restoration of the Mary painting, and for those who have contributed to the door project. In this past year, we have also had the floors done at Immaculate Conception and continue to update and upgrade the halls in both parishes. We also have received funds for the repair and upkeep of the sound system. Many of the components are quite old and renewing them is both advantageous to our prayer and an ongoing necessity.

We have been slowly and carefully addressing the debts, while making sure not to let them be an added burden to the budget.

I ask, as always, that you pray for the parish. Each day, ask God to send us the Holy Spirit to guide us, strengthen us, and renew us. It is not a seasonal project, but a year-round effort. I thank you for your generosity and ask for your prayers. Come, Lord Jesus.

Peace,

Father Murray

2022 Report