Once again, the financial position of St. Mary, Mother of the Church Parish continues to improve. The Parish family continues to grow and, most importantly, the commitment to Parish programs is stronger than ever. You, the Parishioners, your dedication and spiritual focus are what defines St. Mary, Mother of the Church.
Over the past year, we have continued to expand our Parish's facilities and programs as evidenced by the following:
IMPROVEMENTS TO POVERTY:
* Installation of the Altar Cross
* Expansion of the Parking Lot (58 new spaces)
* Repainting and Renovation of the Rectory
* Installation of the Statue of Mary in front of the Church
* Installation of the Parish Name in front of the Church
* Installation of New Lighting on the School Gym
* Repair of the Statue of Mary in front of School
* Installation of the Stained Glass Windows
NEW PROGRAMS:
* Began a Vacation Bible School
* Hired a Youth Minister to lead the High School Student Program, "GOD'S TYM"
* Completed fifth and final season of RENEW (20 Groups or 200 Parishioners)
* Began "Prism", a support group for single parents and stepparents
* Presentation of Continuing Education related to the Old Testament
* Increased Enrollment at St. Mary's School And Religious Education Program
* Expansion of Parish Nurse Program to include Diabetic Testing
* Expansion of Parish Friends Program
* Began "Weekly Bible Study" Meetings
FOR UP-COMING YEAR, GOALS INCLUDED:
* Continue Renew Groups under tghe name of "Basic Christian Communities"
* Installation of Memorial Walk and Prayer Garden - front of the Church
* Completion of the New Refinishing
* Extension of Continuing Education Courses
* Completion of REctory Renovation
* Expansion of Present Programs
In spite of overwhelming support the Parish has received the past three years, which has allowed us to meet many goals, the most difficult aspect of the journey is to sustain this energy and financial support into the future. Accordingly, to those of you who are tithing, we are most grateful and to those new Parishioners who wish to be part of the tithing program, we encourage you to do so.
While we, the priests and stsff, are thankful for your past support and efforts, we ask everyone to join in our continued commitment during the upcoming year.
(sgd.)Msgr. Joseph A. Martin, Pastor
