Annual Collection

11-10-2019Weekly ReflectionFr. Emmanuel Ihemedu

Dear Parishioners of St. John Paul the Great:

The Annual Collection is underway at Saint John Paul the Great. I sent a letter to you, and to every parish household, last month seeking your support. The initial response has been encouraging – thanks be to God!

ST. JOHN PAUL THE GREAT 2019 Annual Parish Collection Update as of Oct. 31, 2019: $79,369. Families participating: 452

We are very grateful for the generosity shown by so many parish families to our Annual Collection. If you have not yet had an opportunity to return your pledge card, please do so as soon as possible. Every gift is welcome and sincerely appreciated.

During these turbulent times for our nation and church, we continue forward, professing the Gospel message and serving those the Lord brings to our lives. It is the ultimate blessing to share one's time, talent or resources with others, such is the action of a disciple and such action brings true joy to one's life.

Today, I humbly follow-up my initial request asking for your support – if financially able – please prayerfully consider a gift to the Annual Collection. Last year's average gift was just over $187. As always, please consider your participation according to your means and current circumstances.

Each year the Annual Collection allows our parish to address unforeseen repairs that pop up and serves to balance our operating budget. Without this collection, the parish would be forced to withdraw savings to meet bills and obligations that will occur over the balance of 2019. Ever-increasing bills on all fronts present us with real financial challenges.

No parish can excel without the love and support of all its parish families. A gift card with suggested gift options and a reply envelope was enclosed with the letter. Please return it in the Sunday collection or through the mail.

Many of your fellow parishioners have already responded generously to my initial request. There is power when all who are able participate. Quite simply, without you, this effort will not be successful. Will you join the many households of our parish community who have already made their gift? If you wish to pledge, you will receive reply cards/envelopes, to use monthly, inserted in the acknowledgement mailing I send you.

Although my primary responsibility is to attend to your spiritual needs, I would be remiss in my duties as your pastor if I did not bring financial concerns to your attention. I thank you in advance because I know the Holy Spirit will call you by name and you will respond to best support our parish community.

Be assured that you are in my prayers each and every day.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Father Emmanuel

P.S. If you have recently made your gift, please disregard this letter and accept my sincere thanks for your generosity.

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