Welcome

Parish Renewal Program

Welcome to the final week of our Parish Renewal Program – the Parish Commitment Weekend. Last week we considered our engagement in parish life. How our involvement in parish ministries is central to building parish community – and central to actively living our faith through service to others. This week we turn our attention to parish finances and our need for a significant increase in pledged Thanksgiving Income to fund not just our ‘day to day’ operations, but our ongoing commitment to the mission of the parish, our pastoral care and outreach programs. Stephen Littleton from Parish First, who has been co- ordinating the Program for the parish, will speak with us at each Mass, and assist us as we complete our new Thanksgiving pledges at Mass. 
WE ASK FOR YOUR PLEDGED FINANCIAL COMMITMENT TO SUPPORT THE PARISH 
What is the current state of our pledged Thanksgiving income? 
● Thanksgiving pledges from parishioners are the major source of parish income and need a significant increase 
●  It can be done – but we need the support of EVERY parish family. Can we count on you? 
What does my Thanksgiving pledge pay for? 
●  Supporting our parish mission, pastoral care, and outreach programs 
●  The operating costs of the parish – professional parish staff, insurance, utilities etc. 
●  Ensuring we can maintain an annual surplus and provide a “buffer” for future contingencies 
How much should I pledge? 
●  Only you can answer this question. But remember that this is YOUR parish. This is YOUR parish family. Every parishioner has a responsibility to play their part 
●  An important reflection is “How do I use my discretionary income?” What is left after paying the essentials of life? How we do is a strong indicator of our priorities in life. We simply ask that your support is a meaningful one in your own individual circumstances 
● We unashamedly ask those with the greatest capacity to contribute the most – with special thanks for those on restricted incomes whose continued support is very much appreciated 
How do I pledge? 
●  We are asking every parish family to ‘come on board’ with a regular pledge to Thanksgiving 
●  Our preferred means of support is by a monthly Direct Debit from your nominated Bank account, or by a Debit or Credit Card deduction 
●  Of course, traditional cash envelopes are also available 
●  Use the Commitment card at all Masses this weekend – Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May 
●  Use the Commitment form from the Program brochure 
●  Complete your pledge at Mass this weekend – or to the Parish Office by Wednesday 3 June