Toolkit For Building Parish Communities

Toolkit

For Building

Parish

Communities

Catholic Diocese of Youngstown

Stewardship Commission

Toolkit for Building Parish

Communities

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction……………………………………………………………………1

Stewardship of the Eucharist…………………………………………………..2

Tool #1 The Welcome Mentality…………………………………………..….3

How Welcoming Are We……………………………………………. 4-6

Family Registration form…………………………………………….. 7-9

Youth Time And Talent Survey……………………………………...10-11

Tool #2 An Attitude of Gratitude…………………………………………..12-14

Tool #3 Gathering Space…………………………………………………......15

Gathering Space Examples………………………………………….16-18

Architects Used to Design Gathering Spaces…………………………19

Tool #4 Stewardship Prayer…………………………………………………20

Sample Stewardship Prayers………………………………………..21-22

Tool #5 Community Enrichment Committee……………………………...23-24

Tool #6 Discernment of “Experienced” Parishioners……………………..25-26

Experienced Parishioner Information Sheet………………………..27-28

One-On-One Interviews………………………………………………29

Tool #7 Database of Parishioner Skills……………………………………...30

Tool #8 Parish Website…………………………………………………... 31-34

Parish Youth and Your Parish Website………………………………35

Parish Website Resources……………………………………………36

Tool #9 Stewardship of Material Possessions………………………………37

Parish Offertory Income Resources………………………………….38

The Good Steward and Estate Planning……………………………..39

Stewardship and Children……………………………………………40

How Did Jesus Deal With Money And Possessions?..........................41

Sample Annual Financial Report…………………………………..42-47

Toolkit for Building Parish

Communities

INTRODUCTION

The Toolkit for Building Parish Communities was developed by the Diocese of

Youngstown Stewardship Commission to help parishes build strong communities

where stewardship is visibly a way of life.

The Diocese of Youngstown Stewardship Commission began its work in the year

of the new millennium…2000. The Commission has been working under a Plan

of Action to fulfill the following Mission Statement:

The Diocesan Stewardship Commission, composed of priests, religious,

laity and diocesan personnel, echoes God’s call to holiness by inviting

and enabling the people of the Diocese of Youngstown to share a vision

of Stewardship as the way to live a Holy Life.

The Commission defines the stewardship way of life as it is proclaimed in

Stewardship: A Disciples Response, the U.S. Bishops’ Pastoral Letter on

Stewardship. Members of the Commission have attended the International

Catholic Stewardship Conference and other programs offered through similar

groups promoting Christian Stewardship. To fulfill its Plan and Mission, the

Commission continues to sponsor Diocesan Stewardship Days in the Diocese of

Youngstown. Numerous nationally recognized speakers on the subject were

invited to the diocese to share with clergy and parish representatives their wisdom

and experience.

In 2007, the Commission invited Father Stephen Dohner, Pastor of Holy Martyrs

parish in Medina, Ohio, to speak at two Stewardship Day events. Father Dohner

emphasized the point that stewardship cannot thrive in a parish unless there first

exists a sense of community. Members of the Commission visited Father Dohner’s

parish and witnessed the strong sense of community and stewardship that exists

under this priest who has a background in the social sciences.

In May of 2009, the Commission invited Father Dohner and his parish Pastoral

Associate, Janet Peyton, to facilitate a process in a retreat setting. That process

resulted in the development of the Toolkit for Building Parish Communities.

The Commission wishes to acknowledge Father Stephen Dohner, Janet Peyton,

Bishop George Murry, S.J. and Bishop Robert Morneau for the insight, inspiration

and guidance in the development of our Toolkit for Building Parish Communities.

We recognize that the Toolkit is not a completed project, but instead is the

initiation of an ongoing process that will, with the grace of our Lord, promote

Stewardship as a way of life for the people of God.

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STEWARDSHIP OF THE

EUCHARIST

The Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life.” The other

sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostles

(emphasis added) are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it. For

in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church,

namely Christ himself, our Pasch. ---Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1327

Strong stewardship begins with strong faith, and strong faith begins with a strong

celebration of the Eucharist. As many of the stewardship prayers recited in the

different parishes in our Diocese declare, everything we are and everything we

have comes from God, our heavenly Creator. We gather weekly as a faith family

to celebrate the fact that, as undeserving as we are, God DOES provide all we need

for our spiritual and physical benefit.

If stewardship is the giving of our time, talent, and treasure in gratitude for the gifts

given us, then one must not forget to also give gratitude for the spiritual gifts,

especially the gift of faith, for it is this gift that makes all else possible. The

Church provides for such an opportunity weekly in our celebration of the

Eucharist.

Not only do we gather in the Eucharist to thank our heavenly Provider, we also

gather with humble and contrite hearts to beseech our God with an even stronger

faith in order to continue to discern where and when we are needed to bring about

the kingdom, for we are the instruments He uses to accomplish this.

Disciples give thanks to God for gifts received and strive to share them with

others. That is why, as Vatican II says of the Eucharist, “if this celebration

is to be sincere and thorough, it must lead to various works of charity and

mutual help, as well as missionary activity and to different forms of

Christian witness. - Stewardship: A Disciples Response: The U.S. Bishops’

Pastoral Letter on Stewardship

While full and active participation in the Eucharistic celebration is essential in

strengthening faith, one must daily ask for guidance and courage to answer the call

to stewardship. Daily mass if possible, prayer, reflection of Sacred Scripture, and

time spent in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament should be part of a good

steward’s daily routine. It is when one has a strong faith – nourished by Christ

himself in his Sacred Body and Precious Blood – that strong works become a

natural part of the steward’s way of life.

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Tool #1

THE WELCOME MENTALITY

welcome v. To extend warm hospitality; to accept gladly; greet

hospitably. adj. Received warmly; pleasing. n. A greeting upon one’s

arrival.

This is the definition of the word “welcome.” It sounds simple enough.

Those wishing to join the parish fill out the registration form with the Pastor

after a weekend Mass. All the pertinent information is noted. The parish

has a Welcoming Team who contacts the newly registered to welcome them

to the parish. Their names are published in the bulletin and

welcomed as new parishioners. We may even go as far as

putting their picture on the bulletin board. The greeters at the

weekend Masses may even recognize them as new

parishioners and welcome them by name.

Now what? If yours is like most parishes, the majority seem to slip

into parish life very quietly. They attend Mass on the weekend, but

may be hesitant to come to a social function or a prayer group. Will

I know anyone there? - is often the first question on their minds.

The kids want to know if there will be anything for them to

do; the elderly may think the same thing.

Are we an inviting community? How do we truly and

completely welcome people, not just into the parish, but into

the life of the parish? We must develop a process by which we welcome

new parishioners not just by name and envelope number, but as fellow

Christians with a contribution to make to the parish, and as people in need of

parish community support. The following pages include suggestions and

resources to help you develop the “Welcome Mentality” at your parish.

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HOW WELCOMING ARE WE?

A welcoming parish atmosphere begins even before a potential parishioner

pulls into the parking lot.

o How do the grounds look from the street?

Are there weeds in need of pulling?

Does the grass need cut?

Is the church sign easy to read?

Does all the lighting work? Is it effective enough?

o Are the driveway and the parking lot in good repair?

Clear entrance and exit signs

Clearly defined parking spaces, especially for the handicapped

Surface free of potholes and cracks

o From the parking lot, there should be a transition area before you

enter the doors of the church to help shift the mindset from worldly to

spiritual.

Is the walkway to the church clearly defined, free of debris and

in sound condition?

In the case of an incline or steps, is there a handrail for

assistance?

Is there a garden area or flower bed to remind us of God’s

simple beauty?

In the case of a garden area, are there seating areas where

people can take advantage of meditation or reflection

time?

Are the entrance doors to the church in good working order,

clean and attractive?

o What do you find when you enter the church?

Is there someone to greet you with a warm welcome, a broad

smile and a hearty handshake?

If you have a gathering space…

Is it large enough for before and after Mass gatherings?

Is it clean and uncluttered?

Is it warm and inviting?

Or if you do not, can you make one or repurpose an area

for one?

Are the rest rooms easy to find? Are they clean and well

stocked?

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o A well received idea is to have a “Hospitality

Basket” in place with items such as hand lotion,

room deodorizer, emery boards, etc.

What do you experience when you enter the worship space?

Is the baptismal font or holy water easily accessible?

Is the lighting adequate – without glare or burned out

bulbs?

Is the environment appropriate for the season and that

weekend’s celebration? Do you avoid the use of artificial

flowers and greenery? Live plants do so much to

enhance the worship area.

Is the sound system adequate? Can the Word and the

music be heard by all without being overpowering?

Are worship aids available and in good condition?

Does the space “invite you in?”

Is the liturgy celebrated with the goal of active, full

participation of the assembly?

When someone decides to join the parish, chances are they have already been

attending Mass there for some time, so in their mind they are very comfortable

with what happens at Sunday liturgy. Now let’s look at the registration process

and how we can welcome them into the life of the parish.

The registration process should not be a simple “fill out this form.” The

concept behind the “Welcome Mentality” is to get to know our parishioners

and their needs. Consider the following suggestions.

o It should take time – time to get to know the people through

conversation. Allow at least ½ hour or so.

o If they show up at the door and you have the time, fine. If not, meet

with them briefly and ask them to set up an appointment.

o If they ask to register after Mass, do so in a quiet place where you will

not be interrupted.

o Look at your registration form itself. Does it contain all the necessary

information? Is there a place for email addresses and cell phone

numbers?

o Do you have an area on your form that asks about their interests,

skills, talents and experiences?

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If you don’t, add one! This is how you get to know your

people. You can’t talk to them about what interests them if

you don’t know!

Use this information to build a database of skills, talents and

gifts. People may not join a group, but will almost always

respond to a specific need if you know what to ask of them!

o If possible, introduce the newly registered to the rectory staff. Putting

a face to the name that answers the phone when they call is important.

o Take them on a tour of your facilities. Even though they may have

attended Mass there many times, a walk-around with some history and

explanation will help them feel more at home.

o Develop a short welcome video that can be shown during the

registration time.

o Have a list of families or individuals who are willing to be a mentor to

a new family or individual.

They will be responsible for contacting and welcoming them to

the parish, and inviting them to be their guest at upcoming

parish activities.

o Do publish their names in the bulletin! Do post their picture on the

bulletin board! Do whatever it takes to make them feel part of parish

life!

o Prepare a “Welcome Packet” for new parishioners that includes

parish information, a listing of ministries, staff member names and

their office numbers, and etc. Include in the packet a hand-made

welcome card from a young member of the parish. Cards can be

made in a parish school, in psr, or as a service project for sacramental

preparation Have students “welcome” the new family and offer an

activity of interest at the parish that they(the student) enjoys. The

card should be signed with the child’s first name only.

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Resource—The Welcome Mentality

Your Parish Name

Family Registration Form Parish Address and Phone Number

Last Name: Name Mailing Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Home Phone: Cell Phone:

______________________________________________________________________________

Individual Member Information

Role (Husband, Wife, Single, Grandparent, Guardian, Single Parent, etc.:

First Name / Nickname Gender: Male Female

DOB: mm/dd/yyyy Email:

Are you Catholic? ____________ Check Sacraments Received and add date if known:

Baptism Date: _______ Eucharist Date:______ Confirmation Date:_______

Individual Member Information






Dependent Children Information Son Daughter First Name / Last Name Gender M / F

Birthdate: mm/dd/yyyy School: Grade:



Son Daughter First Name / Last Name

/ /

/ /

/

/ /

Gender

M / F




__________________________________________________________________

Son Daughter First Name / Last Name Gender M / F




__________________________________________________________________

Other Adult Information






Please Initial Areas of Interest, Experience, Giftedness

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/

/ /

/

/ /

/ /

What are your skills and talents?

____ Sewing ____ Gardening ____ Carpentry

____ Computer Skills ____ Flower Arranging ____ Electrical

____ Graphic Design ____ Teaching ____ Plumbing

____ Poster Making / Display ____ Group Facilitation ____ Painting

____ Baking / Cooking ____ Child Care ____ Engineering

____ Phone Calling ____ Hospitality ____ Writing

____ Cleaning ____ Clerical ____ Administration

____ Accounting ____ Legal ____ Banking

Do you have an interest being involved in the following ministries?

All Ages Catholic Teaching Liturgical Music

_____ Core Team _____ Eucharistic Minister _____ Adult Choir

_____ Implementation Team _____ Altar Server _____ Children’s Choir

_____ Table Facilitator _____ Lector _____ Adult Handbells

_____ Children’s Catechist _____ Usher _____ Children’s Bells

_____ Children’s Liturgy _____ Altar Bread Baker _____ Musician

_____ Photography / Video _____ Youth Ministry _____ Specify:

Are you interested in….

_____ Helping the poor?

______ providing transportation to Mass?

______ comforting the grieving?

______ visiting the homebound?

______ giving support through prayer?

______ making hospital visits?

______ helping maintain the parish property?

______ working the annual festival?

______ working at bingo?

______ how to live the stewardship way of life?

Would you consider….

______ making a renewal?

______ weekend?

______ being a sponsor for RCIA?

______ helping at vacation bible school?

______ being part of a ministry team?

______ hosting a small group at your

Home?

Are you looking for….

_______ opportunities to grow

spiritually?

______ ways to grow in faith as a

family?

______ fellowship opportunities?

______ meaningful parish opportunities?

______ young adult activities?

Do you have experience with….

______ drama and / or dance?

______ audio and / or video equipment?

______ web site development?

______ being a discussion leader?

What brought you to our parish? __________________________________________________

Do you have a special situation that we should know of?

Are you or someone in your family interested in becoming a Catholic? _____________

Are you or someone in your family seeking a sacrament? ______________________________

Resource—The Welcome Mentality

YOUTH TIME AND TALENT SURVEY

NAME ________________________________ PHONE____________________

Listed below are areas where confirmed youth can participate in the activities of

the parish. Please indicate areas of interest to you. You will be contacted shortly

thereafter.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION AND EDUCATION:

_____ Help with Elementary PSR. - We need teacher’s aides, office help, hall

monitors and etc., during Sunday Morning PSR. We also need help with

teacher appreciation projects. Over the summer we need help with

supplies.

_____ Vacation Bible School - In late June we need aides, help with crafts,

babysitting, snacks, games, music and etc.

_____ Bible Study – Youth led scripture study with an adult advisor.

CHRISTIAN SERVICE AND OUTREACH:

_____ Food Drive for the Needy – The elementary students collect food for needy

families. We need youth to help pack these offerings and also to collect

other donations.

_____ Prayer Power Line- We gather to pray for individuals that bring prayer

requests to our group.

_____ Prison Ministry – We need youth to come together as a group and make

rosaries for inmates. We also need youth to collect greeting cards and do

additional outreach a few times a year.

_____ Care Network – We provide babysitting, meals, and transportation for

parish families facing an emergency.

FAMILY LIFE

_____ Parish Activities – We need volunteers to serve, set up, and clean up after

our spaghetti dinners. We need help with games and set up at our parish

picnic.

_____ Respect Life – We gather to play a role in the human life chain, and

securing signatures on petitions.

_____ Coffee and Donuts – Volunteers are needed once an month to set up, help

serve and clean up.

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ADMINISTRATION

_____ Office Assistance – Volunteers are occasionally needed between 9 am to

5 pm doing photocopying, mailings and etc.

_____ Building and Grounds – Help is needed with lawn and garden work and

light maintenance. No particular skill is needed.

_____ Cleaning the Church – You would be part of a team that cleans the church

on a monthly basis.

LITURGY

_____ Proclaimer – Reader at Mass.

_____ Eucharistic Minister – Must be 16 years or older.

_____ Usher / Greeter – Serving at designated Masses.

_____ Liturgy Planning – Join a committee that meets once a month to plan for

Mass

_____ Choir – The choir meets on Thursdays to practice.

_____ Canton / Songleader – Provide music leadership at Masses where the choir

is not performing.

_____ Children’s Liturgy – We need aides at Masses to assist with the special

Liturgy of the Word gatherings for young elementary students.

_____ Instrumental Ensemble – Join a group to perform at Masses.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

_____ Annual Spiritual Retreat – Join our youth team to plan the Retreat.

_____ Fundraisers – Assist with various parish fundraisers throughout the year.

_____ Mission Trip – Sign up to go on one of our parish mission trips.

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Tool #2

An Attitude of Gratitude

The U.S. Bishops’ Pastoral Letter on Stewardship…Stewardship: A Disciples

Response defines a Christian Steward as follows:

“One who receives God’s gifts gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a

responsible and accountable manner, shares them in justice and love with all, and

returns them with increase to the Lord.”

According to the Bishops, the Christian Steward acknowledges that all they have

and all they are is “gift” from a loving God and the first response to this reality is

gratitude. As Catholics we are challenged to demonstrate our gratitude for all we

have been given by sharing our gifts with others and in support of Christ’s Mission

made possible through our parish community. It could be said that the

“Stewardship Way of Life” is in fact a life of “Thankful Giving.”

A parish community must serve as the model of demonstrated gratitude. People

enjoy and appreciate being recognized for what they have shared, given, or

accomplished by means of their God-given skills. Saying, “Thank you!” fosters

strong-bonded relations that help build a strong parish community. For this reason,

a parish must take advantage of every opportunity to demonstrate gratitude. A

recent survey in the Diocese of Youngstown showed that two-thirds of the

responding parishes have an annual “appreciation dinner” or event to recognize

those who generously share their gifts in support of the parish.

APPRECIATION & RECOGNITION IDEAS

There are lots of ways to celebrate the gifts of Time & Talent. This list is shared to

encourage your creativity as you find the best ways to celebrate Stewardship in

your parish.

send letters or notes

create certificates

invite parishioners to seminars or workshops outside of the parish and pay

the registration fee

invite a member to participate with you in a community event

ask a parishioner to serve as a mentor or trainer of others

send a note of thanks to the member’s family

develop a volunteer of the month program

nominate for a community recognition program

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send a birthday card or other seasonal greeting

publish accomplishments in newsletters or bulletin

create a guardian angel recognition program using angel pins

have children recognize their teachers-involve the recipients of service in

service-celebrations

commission people during Mass

recognize students as they graduate from high school and support them in

their future plans-college, service, work

write a letter of welcoming to all kindergartens or first graders on the

occasion of their first day of school

organize periodic talks highlighting the work of volunteers in your parish

pray for particular ministries during the General Intercessions

devote an entire weekend of Masses to a Celebration of Service

create a “You Are Picture Perfect” display with pictures of people in

service-choir pictures, kitchen pictures, etc.-let people see themselves in

ministry

have the Stewardship Committee write a letter of thanks to each person

currently giving of their Time and Talent

create “You Made a Difference in My Life” buttons and have people give

their buttons to someone else who made a difference in their lives within 24

hours of the receipt of the button

have a roast for everyone rotating off a committee

send get well cards

salute an individual each week in the bulletin

give a pack of life savers with a note “you saved my life when...”

send “you made me a shining star” notes to people who worked with you,

especially people who worked in the background on a big project.

feature parishioners in news articles in the church bulletin or parish

magazine as well as in local and metropolitan papers.

prepare and distribute trinkets, mugs, pens, and key chains, etc

create a tee-shirt

pay for a trip to ball game for all the children and youth giving of their Time,

Talent & Treasure-have their parents or the young adults in your parish

serve as chaperones

have a party or picnic

take a group photo and reproduce for all members of the committee or group

mount a picture of an important symbol in the church and give the picture to

parishioners in recognition of their Time & Talent

calligraphy a meaningful scripture passage and frame

document a member’s service in a letter of recommendation

send impromptu cards

purchase newspaper space for a recognition ad

create a recognition edition of the parish newsletter or bulletin

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attend a sports event, game, movie, or play together

have a reception

praise the person to their friends and family, publicly and privately

have a “Committee Chairs Day” recognizing the leadership of committees,

projects and /or programs

send a package of tea saying “since you’ve joined our group, things are

really brewing”

send a Thanksgiving card to the member’s family thanking them for sharing

their family member

develop an honor roll or alumni association for past leaders

publish a list of all members serving in the parish and large community

write notes of thanks-frequently

create rotating recognition programs-January for Religious Education

catechists and the education ministry-February for liturgical and music

ministers-March for members of the Pastoral Council, etc.

publicize community service recognition received by a parishioner

write to all those receiving their First Communion letting them know how

important they are to you as they take this next step to full initiation in the

church.

Glue a chocolate kiss or hug to a card saying “take a bow; you deserve a

kiss/hug!”

Remember that community life can be strengthened through liturgical and social

recognition of particular events happening in the parish. For example, parish

anniversary, a public honor given to a parishioner, a tragic accident, return of

military parishioners, natural disasters and etc.

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Tool #3

GATHERING SPACE

“Hallelujah! I praise the name of the Lord! Praise, you servants of the Lord,

Who stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God!

Praise the Lord; the Lord is good! Sing to God’s name; it is gracious!

Psalm 135: 1-3

The Gathering Space is a room or designated area of the church building that

provides a comfortable atmosphere for parishioners to develop a sense of

community. This space should be adjacent to the church worship area.

In the Gathering Space, people are able to greet one another and socialize before

mass or other important church events. This designated area is also used to

welcome parishioners and visitors entering the church and conveys a feeling of

friendliness necessary to building a strong Catholic community.

The revised liturgy allows for liturgical celebrations to commence in a gathering

space. Examples include but are not limited to: processions, blessings, baptisms,

funerals and etc.

Remember to set aside an area in the gathering space to highlight youth activities.

Feature those involved in both Catholic and public school sports, plays, band and

other activities.

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Resource—Gathering Space

Gathering Space Examples

16

17

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Resource—Gathering Space

Architects Used to Design Gathering

Spaces in the Diocese of Youngstown

K. Anthony Hayek, AIA Olsavsky & Jaminet Architects

MS Consultants Inc. 114 E. Front Street, Ste. 200

333 Federal Plaza E Youngstown, Ohio 44503

Youngstown, Ohio 44503 330-744-8981

330-744-5321

Fred Berens Frank S. Pavliga Architects

3105 Sunnybrook St. NW 1965 New Milford Rd.

Massillon, OH 44647 Atwater, OH 44201

330-832-8249 330-325-9570

Richard Fleischman Architects, Inc.

1025 Huron Road E.

Cleveland, OH 45115

216-771-0090

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Tool #4

Stewardship Prayer

“Tell them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous,

ready to share, thus accumulating as treasure a good foundation

for the future, so to win the life that is true life.” 1 Timothy 6:18-19

The Stewardship Prayer is recited by the congregation at the beginning of each

Mass. This prayer announces the parish commitment to the concept of stewardship

and speaks to God’s gifts to us and our need to share with others. It is a call to

service as commanded by Jesus, Himself, and it is a prayer intended to make us

aware of our responsibilities as Catholics to the world community.

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Resource – Stewardship Prayer

Sample Stewardship Prayers

Heavenly Father, Life is Your gift to us,

You call us to share our lives

in service to others.

Guide us as we choose each day

to show Your presence to all those we meet.

Give us the courage

to do whatever we can

with whatever we have

to bring Your love to our community

and the world.

Amen

Loving God, at this time in the life of our parish,

we turn to You with gratitude for our past,

and with great anticipation for what is yet to be.

Bless us with a sense of unity, a spirit of cooperation,

and a generous heart as we face the challenges of this parish.

Bless and guide us as we build on our sacred past,

and work to shape a holy future,

so that You may reign in our lives,

and we may be faithful stewards of our many gifts.

This we ask through Christ our Lord…AMEN

LORD GOD, You alone are the source of every good gift,

of the vast array of our universe, and the mystery of human life.

We praise You and we thank you for Your great power

and your tender, faithful love.

Everything we are and everything we have is your gift,

and after having created us You have given us

into the keeping of Your son, Jesus Christ.

In the Name of the Spirit of Jesus,

we commit ourselves to be good stewards of the gifts entrusted to us,

to share our time, talent, and material gifts

as an outward sign of the treasure we hold in Jesus…AMEN

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O God, our loving Creator and

Giver of all good gifts, bless our

parish.

Strengthen our faith and grant us

the spirit of Christian

stewardship

so that we may give generously of

our time, talent and treasure

to the spreading of Your kingdom

here in our church and

throughout the world.

In the Name and Spirit of Jesus,

we commit ourselves to be good stewards

of the gifts entrusted to us,

to share our time, our talent our

material gifts

as an outward sign of the

treasure we hold in Jesus,

in whose name we pray…AMEN

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Tool #5

Community Enrichment Committee

Committee’s Challenge….Is the message getting out?

Committee’s Objective…Publicize the mission and activities

of groups and ministries within the

parish to both longstanding and

newer parishioners.

Committee’s Tasks...CONFIRM THE MISSION STATEMENT

REFRESH THE MESSAGE

CONSIDER ALL AVENUES

1. The Bulletin: Highlight a different group or ministry every week or two.

Draw attention to a consistent column or corner to market the

ministry of the week.

2. The Pulpit: Invite committee members to make oral announcements.

3. The Entrance and Gathering Places: Design creative and neat posters and

signs.

4. The Radio: Local radio stations make public service announcements often

without charge.

5. The Newspapers: Local newspapers run community announcements without

charge. Special ads may be placed at nominal fees for

special events.

6. The Internet: Keep ministry information current on parish websites.

Consider mass emails (email blasts).

7. Handbills: Representatives at the entrances distributing handbills provides

a good chance that the information will get home.

8. Artistic Displays: A costumed figure or attractive art display can provide a

strong message.

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9. The Property: Never disregard the power of the Burma Shave ads. Create a

catchy, progressive sign display on the lawn of the church.

10. The Phone: Explore the readily available automated message system for

advertising that enters the home where the family calendar is

readily available.

11. The Marketing Tool: Be creative with varying marketing options.

12. The Postal Service: A good, old fashioned invitation still works wonders on

many an individual.

13. Parish Meet & Greet: Have a parish “Meet & Greet” once a month after all

Masses that is sponsored by a parish organization. The

organization can set up a table and display pictures and

other information highlighting the ministry they offer

the parish. Refreshments (coffee and donuts) should be

available. It should be announced at the Mass who is

sponsoring the monthly “Meet & Greet.” A schedule

should be established annually designating the

organizational sponsor each month. Do not forget to

include the Youth Ministry or Young Adult Club in the

schedule.

14. Witness Talks: Witness Talks should be given periodically throughout the

year (perhaps quarterly) where parishioners share their

experience in a parish ministry or activity. The talk should

always conclude with an invitation for others to join in the

ministry. Remember to include parish youth and young

adults in your schedule of witness talks.

24

Tool #6

Discernment of “Experienced” Parishioners

“As each one has received a gift,

use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”

--I Peter 4:10

Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to ‘raise’ a parish.

While many parishes depend on a ‘core’ of hard-working, dedicated volunteers

(those who are always there when and where needed), these parishioners may

someday feel the burden of their volunteering. They are reluctant to step down,

because they wonder who will be there to replace them and how will the many

things that are involved in maintaining a parish get done?

There have been studies that show when asked why they are not involved in their

parish, many of those surveyed answered they have not been asked. While

announcements from the pulpit and in the bulletin are the common ways to ask for

volunteers, there are studies that show the best approach is the personal, direct

contact method (Joe, the parish can use your help with…). But how does one

know who to ask?

While strong efforts are made to register and become acquainted with new

parishioners when they register, there must also be a method of becoming ‘re-

acquainted’ with the experienced families of the parish. Occupations, family

dynamics, skills, talents, and interests may have developed or changed over the

years. How is a parish to become aware of these, and equally important, how can

these dynamics be integrated into the well-being of a parish? We need to hear

their story once again.

METHODS : (Presented as suggestions, guidelines; should be adapted to

individual parish situations)

1. Annual stewardship of treasure form…a survey of current involvement

and/or interests in opportunities for involvement.

2. Veteran Parishioner Information Sheet (sample enclosed). This form can be

used as either an insert in the weekly bulletin or be sent in a general mailing

to all registered families. The form should list general areas of interest and

not specific groups, committees, or commissions within the parish.

25

3. One-on-one interviews, as adapted from the procedure used by ACTION

(guidelines enclosed). As methods 1 and 2 listed above are possible

resources for a whole-parish campaign, the one-on-one method provides for

a more personal, getting-to-know-you procedure; it develops a deeper

relationship with our brothers and sisters in faith. This method can be done,

for example, during coffee-and-donuts by members of the parish staff or by

scheduling home visits. It is recommended that a group be trained to

conduct these interviews. We also suggest that parish council members or

parish committee/commission members use this method during meetings

(10-20 minutes needed) in order to get to know each other on a social,

spiritual level as contrasted to a strictly ‘business’ type level. From this, a

method on how to proceed to the parish at large can be developed.

Once you have heard their story, then what? The gathered information from

these methods can be stored in a data-base (if available) or filing system in the

parish office. As specific needs or tasks arise, this information can be accessed

for possible volunteers who have the skills/talents needed in that area.

Guidelines and suggestions can (and should) be adapted to fit your parish

circumstances.

26

Resource – Discernment of “Experienced” Parishioners

EXPERIENCED PARISHIONER

INFORMATION SHEET

NAME________________________________

PHONE

NUMBER______________________________

ADDRESS_____________________________CITY_______________________

ZIP CODE_______

EMAIL ADDRESS______________________________

BEST TIME TO CONTACT______________

Please Initial Areas of Interest, Experience, Giftedness:

Do you have a desire to……… _____help the poor?

_____be more engaged about social justice issues?

_____take the Eucharist to shut-ins?

_____help with hospitality and/or welcoming?

_____make a meal or part of a meal?

_____help those who are grieving?

_____participate in periodic bake sales?

_____be involved in a wellness ministry?

_____help maintain and improve our parish property?

_____work with those who may want to become Catholic?

_____host small group at your home?

_____help our children grow in faith?

_____help those who are seeking employment?

Are you looking for………

____opportunities to grow spiritually (e.g., retreats, renewal)

_______________________________________________(specify)?

____ways to enrich your marriage?

____ways to grow in faith as a family?

27

28

What are your skills and talents……..

____Church cleaning ____Gardening ____Carpentry

____Sewing ____Writing ____Electrical

____Computer skills ____Teaching ____Plumbing

____Graphic design ____Group facilitation ____Painting

____Poster-making display ____Child care ____Engineering

____Baking and cooking ____Hospitality ____Phone calling

____Accounting/Banking/Legal ____Administrative

____Flower arranging

Resource – Discernment of “Experienced” Parishioners

One-On-One Interviews

Learn as much as possible about the person being interviewed within the limited time of the

conversation. Ideally, the one-on-one should take no more than one half hour but it can go

longer depending on the willingness of the person to share their feelings about their topics

of the conversation.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

Curiosity & Courage

OBJECTIVES OF ONE-ON-ONES:

Begin a relationship Determine Self Interest Gain Clarity Seek Information

BEGIN A RELATIONSHIP:

Get to Know the Person Being Interviewed

Listen to What the Other Person Has to Say

Celebrate Diversity

Build and Strengthen Our Christian Community

DETERMINE SELF INTEREST

Each of us has our own story, the events and experiences that have shaped our lives and made

our life story unlike anyone else’s:

Ask questions…….

About an experience that made the person being interviewed feel fulfilled as a person.

About something the person being interviewed believes about themselves or about life.

About something he or she has accomplished.

About something they have always wanted to do.

About what makes this person feel good about themselves.

About something they have made or done that they are proud of.

GAIN CLARITY

Test for Understanding: Make certain that you are clear about what the person has told

you…..do not be afraid to ask questions to gain clarity in your own mind so that no

misunderstanding occurs.

29

Tool #7

Database of Parishioner Skills

“To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for

some benefit. To one is given through the Spirit the expression

of wisdom; to another the expression of knowledge according

to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another

mighty deeds; to another prophecy; to another discernment of

spirits; to another varieties of tongues; to another interpretation

of tongues. But one and the same Spirit produces all of these,

distributing them individually to each person as he wishes.”

1 Corinthians 7-11

A parish community is made up of individuals that are uniquely blessed with

differing gifts. As Catholic Stewards we are challenged to name our gifts and

share them in gratitude for the common good. In this way, we are truly vital

branches connected to the vine…Jesus Christ.

When people come forward offering their gifts in service to the parish community,

it is imperative that the parish leadership be prepared to welcome these stewards in

an organized manner. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that the parish

develop and maintain a computer database that allows for the coordination of and

communication with those offering their skills. The database would consist of

records that include full contact information on each individual together with a

listing of that person’s interests and skills. Interests and skills would have to be

categorized so as to sort and group with those having like interests.

Remember to include in the database a file for recent high school graduates. As

these young people go off to college or a career path that takes them away from

home they should be sent a parish bulletin via email. In this way they maintain a

connection with their own parish and the Church.

There are a number of parish software programs that offer modules for managing

volunteers. Popular ones in our diocese like, “Our Parish Family” make these

modules available at a fair price.

30

Tool #8

Parish Website

What a Tangled Web We Weave….

According to Mike Hayes, co-founder and managing editor of

bustedhalo.com, and author of the book “Googling God,” if

your parish does not have a web site, you do not exist. Young

adults looking for a parish will more often than not search the

web, and if you aren’t there, the odds of them finding you are

very slim. The days of the neighborhood parish where everyone

within the parish boundaries went to that particular church no

longer exist. Today people search for the “right fit” in a parish, and may attend

mass at several churches over a period of time before they decide where they fit in.

That’s one reason a presence on the web is important.

A Web With a Purpose….

Are you wondering how helpful a parish website can be? Consider

the telephone book. It was first published in 1878 and listed just

names, no phone numbers. But it also included information on

phone etiquette, and a listing of the local businesses, the first

yellow pages so to speak. Of course, it has evolved over the past 130

years and become a go-to source of information. In addition to home

and business phone number listings, it contains local information on events,

attractions and entertainment. There are maps of the local area, a listing of

government phone numbers, and all the area zip codes. There is even a coupon

section! Now, stop and think about how often you have used the phone book

lately. I would venture to guess not nearly as much as you used to. The internet,

with its’ ability to update information in an instant, has become our go-to source

for much of our information. And like the phone book, it is in a continual state of

growth and expansion. Today, not being on the web is akin to not having a phone

listing.

Web Web Everywhere!….

31

So now you have decided to develop a website. Where do you begin? The web, of

course! Spend some time browsing other churches sites, not just locally but

nationwide.

What’s good about them? What’s bad about them? Take notes! What do you

find attractive? Is it well organized, not overcrowded? Is it easy to read? Is it

easy to navigate around? Can you find things with ease? Is the information

current?

When was the last update? A well laid out, easy to read and navigate site takes

time to plan. This is the most important phase of developing your site. Don’t cut it

short!

Now, there are plenty of services out there that can

work with you to develop your site and maintain it,

all for a fee, of course. They will meet with you,

listen to your ideas, build your

site and maintain it so the

content is always current. But of course, all this comes at a

price, and if you are blessed to be able to afford it, go for it!

But if you are like most parishes, and the expense of having

professionals build and maintain your web site is not in the budget, you have to go

the volunteer route. The best approach is to put together a team consisting of the

following: a parish staff member; someone knowledgeable about software;

computer hardware person; a graphic artist; a word-smith; and someone with

marketing experience.

The Weaving Process….

Once you have your team together, it’s time to start the planning process. The

easiest thing to do is to get out some paper and pencil, with a big eraser. This is

where someone with marketing experience will be helpful. First, you should decide

what the purpose of your site is.

32

Do you just want to publish the general parish information?

Do you want to post the parish calendar and the weekly bulletin? What about

pages for the parish organizations and ministries? All these things should be

thought out first. List them. Of course, content can always be added later, but try

to vision the best site to suit your needs.

Next, start mapping out the site in a flow chart format similar to the one below.

This is a very crude sample, but you get the idea. Doing this on paper first will

save a lot of time when you actually start to build the site. Using pencil and paper

allows you to easily change things as you develop the site. It will also help you

decide what information you want to include on your site. You can even use a

blank wall and lots of post-its for this process. The idea is to get everything

mapped out before you begin any actual construction work.

Once you have determined what pages you will have and what will be on them,

you will have to collect the information to be posted on the individual pages.

It may be just text, or you may want to include photos

or videos, links to other sites, audio, etc. It’s helpful

to begin collecting as much of this information as soon as

you can, since it will more than likely come from a

variety of sources.

So how do you actually begin to build a page? Your team

member knowledgeable in software can be helpful here.

33

Classify

ClClaHo

me About Us

New

s

Ministry Contact Us

Bulletin

Calendar

Liturgical

Outreach

There are a number of dedicated programs for website building on the market,

some inexpensive, some expensive. It will be up to you to research the various

programs to determine if one of them fits your needs.

Another way to build your site is through the use of a CMS, or Content

Management System. These are free, open source software packages that are

available online. There is a bit more of a learning curve with CMS, but well

worth the effort for a couple of reasons. Keeping your site updated will be much

easier, plus the fact that it’s free! As with the dedicated software mentioned

above, there are a number of CMS programs to choose from. You will have to

examine them to decide which one will do what you want your site to do. A listing

of both dedicated software packages and CMS programs are listed on the Resource

Sheet.

A third option is to look for built in resources to get a page published. Your ISP

(Internet Service Provider) may have some basic templates to put your parish

information on. If you are using a parish census software package there may be a

web page development component to that. Some bulletin companies also offer a

basic web page package. If you are short of funds and/or staffing, these might be

easier options to at least get your basic parish information published. However

you decide to build your site, always remember there are endless sources of

information both online and in print to help you.

Now is the time to start putting things together. Your team member with writing

skills will be able to make the written content of the pages clear and concise, and

the graphics person can make sure the layout and color scheme is appealing.

Always keep in mind the user of the site. Your personal favorite color

combination and font styles may not be the most appealing for those you want

to visit your site. There are many resources on the web and in print to help you

build your site.

34

Resource – Parish Website

Parish Youth and Your Parish Website

As most parents know, young people have a true acumen for today’s hi-tech

communication tools. For this reason, it is recommended that you involve the

parish youth in the development of your parish website. For example, the site

could have a “Youth Corner” where a youth group designs and updates the page.

A youth minister can monitor the page and oversee its content.

It is also recommended that the site have a teacher and catechist corner where ideas

promoting stewardship and lesson plans could be displayed. The curriculum for

catechesis from the Diocese of Youngstown Office of Religious Education could

be placed on the site.

35

Resource – Parish Website

Parish Website Resources

DESIGN & PUBLISHING COMPANIES

vortexdesign.com usdigitalpartners.com

elexio.com sweeneyandassociates.com

123triad.com tkg.com

cboss.inc eznettools.net

catholicweb.com idmi.net

itechconsulting.com ecatholicchurches.com

CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

wordpress.org cushcms.com

drupal.org kompozer.netjoomla.org

movabletype.org

silverstripe.comexpressionengine.com

concrete5.org railfrog.com

modxcms.com

WEB DESIGN SOFTWARE

DreamWeaver CS4 XSitePro

adobe.com xsitepro.com

Visual Site Designer Web Plus x2

coffeecup.com serif.com

Rapid Weaver Site Spinner

realmacsoftware.com virtualmechanics.com

MicroSoft Expression Web 2 Photon FX Easy Website Pro4

Microsoft.com photonfx.net

1st Page 2000 Antenna Web Design Studio 3

evrsoft.com stormdance.net

ABC Web Wizard

abcwebwizard.com

36

Tool #9

Stewardship of Material Resources

“Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure,

packed down, and overflowing, will be poured into

your lap. For the measure with which you measure

will in return be measured out to you.”

Luke 6:38

The stewardship of material resources is but one plant among many in the garden

of Christian Stewardship. Unfortunately, many limit the term stewardship to the

sharing of material resources. This is unfortunate in that it narrows the focus of

what is a broad spectrum of color in the life of a steward-disciple to that of only a

single color.

Despite this caveat, it is important that the members of a parish community

be challenged to reflect on their stewardship of material resources for it is an

integral part of living the life of a steward-disciple.

Promoting the stewardship of material resources can be difficult in a

commercialized society such as that in the United States. Most Americans feel that

what they work for and earn is theirs. Teaching that all belongs to God and that

the material resources we possess are on loan from a loving God is a difficult

concept for some to grasp. Nonetheless, we must courageously remind the faithful

about the stewardship of material resources.

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant.

Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you greater

responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’”

Matthew 25: 23

In the same way that steward-disciples are challenged to be accountable for the

gifts entrusted to them, parish and diocesan leaders are challenged to be

accountable for the gifts entrusted to them by the faithful. Parishes and the diocese

should publish an annual financial report and make it available for anyone to

examine. Parishes should also consider displaying a weekly report on the prior

week’s collections in the parish bulletin.

37

Resource – Stewardship of Material Resources

Parish Offertory Income Resources

Diocese of Youngstown Stewardship of Treasure Process

Contact: Mr. Pat Palombo, CFRE

Director of Development & Stewardship

144 W. Wood Street

Youngstown, OH 44503

330-744-8451 ext. 325

Stewardship of Treasure Process Manual:

Go to www.doystewardship.org

Click on the Stewardship: A Way of Life tab on the top of the page

Scroll to the bottom of page and click on the Manual.

The Cuneen Company

24 Rossotto Drive

Hamden, CT 06514

1-800-842-4488

www.cunneenfundraising.com

email: [email protected]

Capital Campaigns

Guidance in Giving, Inc. Kearns & Associates

225 Snedecor Avenue 3959 North Buffalo Road

Bayport, NY 11705 Orchard Park, NY 14127

1-888-757-5444 1-800-835-5589

Michael R. Cusack, President Jack Kearns, President

www.guidanceingiving.com Email: [email protected]

Additional Stewardship Resources

Diocese of Youngstown

Office of Religious Education Library & Media Center

Online Catalogue

www.doylib.org

Search under the subject: Stewardship

International Catholic Stewardship Council

www.dow.org/documents/Stewardship_Resources.pdf

38

http://www.doystewardship.org/

http://www.cunneenfundraising.com/

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.guidanceingiving.com/

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.doylib.org/


The Good Steward and Estate Planning

The Christian Steward makes an orderly disposition of his or her worldly

possessions at the time of one’s death. Hence, the good steward

has a prudent estate plan in place.

Charitable estate planning offers Catholics an opportunity to return to God and

those in need some of that which God entrusted to us during our lifetime.

Catholics can do this by Leaving A Legacy® and remembering their parish, the

good works of the Church, and other charitable organizations in their will or estate

plan. In this way, the good stewardship one demonstrated during one’s lifetime

can be extended beyond their lifetime.

It is recommended that parishes invite people to name the parish in one’s will or

estate plan using the weekly parish bulletin. The following is suggested:

Remember us last…

When preparing or changing your will or estate plan, you first consider those

closest to you…family and friends. Lastly, please consider a bequest or gift to

St. Joseph Parish so that you can continue furthering Christ’s Mission as a legacy

of your good stewardship.

For information about planned giving and estate planning, please refer to the

following resources:

A. Visit the Diocese of Youngstown Office of Development and Stewardship

website – www.doystewardship.org. Click on the Planned Giving tab at the

top for information.

B. Consider an Estate Planning Seminar for your parish, Catholic School, or

Catholic Agency. An Estate Planning Seminar emphasizes the stewardship

of material resources through a prudent estate plan. A team of experts share

information about estate planning and answer questions in a comfortable

format where nothing is “sold” to anyone. To schedule an Estate Planning

Seminar or for additional information about the subject, call Mr. Pat

Palombo at 330-744-8451 ext. 325.

C. Contact the Office of Development & Stewardship for information about

securing gifts through wills, charitable gift annuities, trusts, life estates

and gifts of life insurance. Please call Mr. Pat Palombo at 330-744-8451

ext. 325.

39

http://www.doystewardship.org/


Stewardship and Children Stewardship can be promoted to young people through the use of weekly offertory

envelopes. Examples include:

40


How Did JESUS DEAL WITH MONEY

AND POSSESSIONS?

The Two Debtors (Lk. 7:41-43)

The Hidden Treasure (Mt. 13:44)

The Costly Pearl (Mt. 13:45)

The Unmerciful Servant (Mt. 18:23-35)

The Good Samaritan (Lk. 10:25-37)

The Friend at Midnight (Lk. 11:5-8)

The Rich Fool (Lk. 12:16-21)

The Barren Fig Tree (Lk. 13:6-9)

The Tower Builder (Lk. 14:28-30)

The King Contemplating a Campaign (Lk. 14:31-33)

The Lost Sheep (Lk. 15:3-7)

The Lost Coin (Lk. 15:8-10)

The Prodigal Son (Lk. 11-32)

The Unjust Steward (Lk. 16:1-7)

The Rich Man and Lazarus (Lk. 16:19-31)

The Unjust Judge (Lk. 18:1-8)

The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Lk. 18:9-14)

The Generous Employer (Mt. 20:1-16)

The Wicked Tenants (Mk. 12:1-12; Mt. 21:33-46, Lk. 20:9-19)

The Servant Entrusted with Supervision (Mt.24:45-51; Lk.12:42-46)

The Talents (Mt. 25:14-30; Lk. 19-12:27)

Sheep and Goats (Mt. 25:31-46)

41


Sample Annual Parish Financial Report

42

Blessed Sacrament Parish

Warren, Ohio

Stewardship of

Treasure

Report

BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

FOR THE YEARS ENDING JUNE 30TH,

Budget

2008 2007 2006 2009

REVENUE: (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited)

Sunday Collection $869,142 $825,369 $810,791 $876,800

Christmas 43,491 40,955 45,431 45,000

Easter 22,947 23,430 22,225 24,000

Bingo/Festivals 15,758 5,003 22,500 10,000

Bulletin 8,500 8,500 8,500 8,500

Other 53,265 50,171 46,250 47,200

Proceeds from

Litigation Settlement

19,787

Total Revenue: 1,013,103 953,428 975,484 1,011,500

EXPENSES: Wages & Benefits 350,120 349,934 337,130 381,580

Catholic School

Subsidy

213,118 230,634 316,856 219,000

Maintenance &

Supplies

120,032 114,735 94,238 127,750

Utilities 103,824 102,002 74,241 124,600

Office Expenses 37,837 34,860 30,786 41,465

Tithing 43,460 41,268 40,269 43,800

Parish Activities 20,546 24,966 22,538 19,450

Religious

Education

18,463 12,544 16,151 18,145

Youth Ministry 4,513 6,897 7,551 6,425

Sanctuary 11,654 12,107 11,570 12,725

Music Program 6,491 6,209 5,275 7,160

Capital

Improvements

5,296

_______________

8,635

_______________

15,132

_______________

9,400

_______________

Total expenses: 935,354 944,791 971,737 1,011,500

Excess revenue

over expenses:

$77,749

=============

$8,637

=============

$3,747

=============

$0

=============

Supplemental Information: Average Sunday

Collection

$16,714.00 $15,872.00 $15,592.00 $16,862.00

Register Households 1318 1305 1312

Active Volunteers 1143 1085 1027

School Age Children

(K-12)

616 702 811

# Baptisms 30 31 32

# Funerals 30 32 30

# Weddings 11 9 14

43

44

FY 2008 REVENUE SOURCES

FY 2008 EXPENSE DISTRIBUTION

Dear Blessed Sacrament Parishioners,

This Sunday is Stewardship Sunday. Today we are asking each one of you to make

a conscious and important decision as to how you will share your treasure with this

parish. It is my intent to inform you of our financial situation for the past fiscal

year and to show you our needs for the future.

You are Blessed Sacrament Parish. It is only through your generosity that the

Parish can continue the many ministries that are so important to our parish life.

Without you we could not function.

In the Stewardship of Treasure report the upper portion of the first page shows the

financial operation of the parish for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008 as well as

the two previous years. The budget for fiscal year 2009 is also shown.

Last year the parish revenue amounted to $1,013,103.00. The largest portion of our

revenue is the Sunday collection. This portion, along with our Christmas and

Easter collections, amounts to $935,580.00 or 92.4% of our revenue.

The next largest single source of revenue is the Texas Hold’em events which

generated $9,439.83 and Bingo at $6,318.11 for closing accounts and selling

equipment.

The “other” category amounted to $53,265.00 or 5.3%. Holy Days, rental revenue,

interest and dividends, various fees, flower donations, etc. are all part of this group.

Expenses for the year amounted to $935,354.00. The major components of this are

salaries and benefits at 37.4%, education at 22.8% and maintenance & utilities at

23.9%.

45

ADMINISTRATION COMMISSION REPORT ON THE

STEWARDSHIP OF BLESSED SACRAMENT PARISH

Education expenses are down from previous years and again decreased for the

fiscal year 2008. This reflects the increased utility credit and resulting subsidy

reduction as a result of the addition of fifth and sixth grades into the Blessed

Sacrament building.

Maintenance and utilities showed a slight increase over the previous year. The bad

news is that we expect utilities to increase for the current year in excess of 20%.

We are a parish that tithes. Five percent of the Sunday collections are set aside for

projects that benefit the poor and the needy. This amounted to $43,460.00 for fiscal

year 2008.

We are still working at reducing the parish debt on the school addition and gym.

As you know the total cost of this project was just over $2,470,000.000. The

original pledges covered about 80% of the project. The additional campaign that

was conducted last fall raised $222,000.00 in donations and pledges. We still owe

$560,699.00 to the bank for this construction. To date we have not needed to use

any of the parish operating income to pay on this debt and don’t expect to use any

this fiscal year. We still have pledge payments coming in, but after this year any

shortfall will have to be addressed.

We have been very fortunate at Blessed Sacrament in that your generosity has

allowed us to finish with a slight excess in our operations for four years in a row.

This is truly remarkable.

In order to continue our many ministries, we must again as you to be generous to

the parish. To operate the parish we need $16,862.00 per Sunday. This amounts to

a 2% increase in your contributions from last year. While this doesn’t sound like

much, with the state of the national and world economy it may be more difficult

than it has been in the past.

Father King, in his letter to you dated September 29, asked that you review the

pamphlet on sacrificial giving and that you prayerfully discuss with your families

the response you will make to the Lord’s call to be good stewards of God’s gifts.

We hope you have done this and will consider increasing your contribution by at

least 2% when you fill in your commitment cards today.

On behalf of Father King, the parish staff and the Administration Commission, we

thank you for all you have done to support the parish in the past, and thank you for

your continued support in the future.

Patrick T. Kenney

Chairman, Administration Commission

46

Toolkit for Building Parish Communities

Conclusion

This survey of tools available to welcome parishioners to our Catholic

communities and to deepen an appreciation of a life of thankful living began with

recognition of the place of Eucharist in our Catholic life. Everything we do, pray

about, cope with, and celebrate in our Catholic communities begins with Eucharist.

Our sacramental moments, our difficult times in the journey, our awesome

gatherings in each parish are radiations from this Eucharistic power center. We

fulfill the Lord’s command to take our faith to the ends of the earth when we get

energy and vision to carry out that command from the Eucharist.

A venerable story from the monastery may help highlight what this tool kit is

about.

A monk was journeying from one monastery to another. He prepared a small

lunch for himself, some bread, cheese, and a bottle of wine wrapped in his

knapsack. He started his walk, appreciating along the way, the sun, flowers, birds,

and the beauty of God’s creation. Before going far, a beam of light from the side

of the path caught his eye. He bent over to see a gemstone, larger than he had ever

seen lying in the grass. He puzzled; should he take it, he did not need it, it did not

belong to him, what would happen if he left it behind. He decided to put it into his

knapsack to decide what he could do with it. A little further down the road he

heard footsteps running up behind him. He looked around at an obviously

disturbed man approaching him. The man asked if he could walk with him.

“Certainly” the monk replied. The man told his sad story of no work, no money, a

sick wife and hungry children. He was walking off to nowhere, just getting away.

The monk listed attentively and reassured the man that God would help him and

things would work out for the best. After some time of walking the monk suggested

that they might have some lunch together. The man agreed. They pulled off the

road, sat down in the grass and opened the knapsack. The gemstone tumbled out

and the man’s eyes opened wide. He, too, had never seen any stone that beautiful.

His expression prompted the monk to ask if he wanted to take the stone. The man

was stunned. “Do you mean that?” he said “this will solve all my problems!” The

monk assured him that he could have it. With great thanks, the man passed up

lunch, picked up the stone and ran back the way he came. The monk had his lunch,

picked up the leftovers and continued the journey. After some walking again the

monk heard footsteps overtaking him. The man returned and said to the monk

“Here, take it back.” The monk said, “Why? Isn’t that going to help you in your

difficulties?” The man replied, “No, take it back” I want what you have that

made you give me that stone.

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Toolkit For Building Parish Communities