FUNDING OUR FACILITIES—PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE
Next month, I’ll complete my second year here at St. Matt’s. I’ve learned a lot about this great community since I began. As a former history teacher, it’s been fascinating to dig into the history.
The other day, for example, I saw a copy of a 2003 letter from Fr. Steve to the parish. In it, he talked about the progress of that year’s capital campaign. Goals at that time included tuckpointing, windows and restorative work on the historic school building.
“So that’s why the brickwork looks so good,” I said to myself. And I was glad to have a better idea of which work was done when. That’s helpful as our Facilities Committee and Finance Council plan for our future.
Our current fundraising efforts—for the school’s flat roof and the electric panel—aren’t as visible as brick and windows. They’re extremely important, however, which is why our top priorities for 2023 are the roof and e-panel projects.
We’re in the final stages of gathering bids for the roof and panel, after which we’ll choose contractors and proceed.
In my almost two years here, I’ve also learned much about St. Matt’s financial condition. We have debts, which we’re paying off. We’ve also been able to allocate a portion of our regular weekend collections to necessary maintenance.
What we can’t do without additional help is pay for the roof and panel. That’s why we’ve added a monthly Capital Needs envelope into the bi-monthly envelope packet. They’re also available at the back of the church.
I’m also promoting EFTs (Electronic Funds Transfers) for capital as well as operational expenses. It’s straightforward to do both at the same time, allowing for support of today’s expenses as well as tomorrow’s. If interested, call me to set up an EFT. I’m happy to help.
LENTEN PRAYER
We’re well into Lent now. How’s it going for you? Praying for an enemy, as recommended by Fr. Steve in a recent homily?
That’s one of my Lenten practices. Another is to listen more. In another recent homily, Fr. Steve talked about how listening to God will lead to a change of heart. Hmmm, I think I see the connection.
Thank you for your support, and have a great week!
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