By now, I hope all parishioners are aware of the difficult staffing changes which had to be made to the parish staff effective July 1 in light of our budget situation. Our fiscal year starts July 1. Our Pastor, along with the advice and consent of the Finance Advisory Council created a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year. It was a very difficult and challenging process in light of the fact that Expenses were reduced by $88,000 (versus the prior fiscal year budget). This effort was accomplished primarily by laying off several dedicated and committed staff because we simply don't have the funds to support the positions. The remaining staff at the Pastoral Center all had to take on additional duties.
To put the magnitude of the situation into perspective: Our weekly Sunday collection target has been $11,000 ($572,000 bolstered by big Christmas and Easter collections). And you might have noticed that we rarely reach that $11,000 target ($10,570 thru May or $19,000 short of goal for the current fiscal year.)
I have heard that there is upset and concern in the parish for those individuals let go. I share that, but also understand that the parish must be realistic with the financial support it is receiving from parishioners. Even with the staff cuts, I suspect most parishioners will notice little change: we will still celebrate Mass 8 times a weekend, and provide the sacraments and educational programs. We'll still do our best to maintain all our properties (but we may have some difficulties if large repairs present themselves). And you've seen Fr. Matt's exhortation that summer collections drop off as individuals and families are away on vacation.
Our Fall Stewardship campaign is going to be a critical time for our parish. I urge all parishioners to seriously and prayerfully consider this issue.