Christmas Letter from the Pastor

Dear Fellow Parishioners of St. Benedict's:

As I wrote in the bulletin a few weeks ago, the nature of charitable giving has changed significantly over the past few years. As the end of the year is upon us, many of us seek avenues compatible with our philanthropic interests. Your continual dedication to St. Benedict’s Church and School shows that we are in your scope, but for understandably grave reasons, you might be hesitant to make an undedicated gift to the parish outside of your regular envelope contribution. To be blunt, many are concerned that money from ordinary parish income is being used by the diocese to pay for settlements from lawsuits. While this is not the case, the reticence of many to be as generous as usual or as they might want to be, is often clearly stated, and definitely very real.

In order to assist with this, I am offering specific opportunities for giving. Some of the items listed are necessary, others a wish list, and some are ways to offset ordinary expenses. While we are doing okay financially – a full report will soon be presented to the parish – we are running a shortfall on the annual budget. This is especially true on the school side.

For example, because of an FCC change in the bandwidth available for our wireless system in church, we need to replace the system. It is likely that one day it will cease to operate because the band is no longer available. The cost for this system is listed below. There are concerns about security on the property. We need cameras in the church in addition to more secure doors on the school. Likewise, for more care in driving and parking, we have been asked to install speedbumps and more markers in the parking lot. It is best to avoid accidents and incidents in the parking lot by being proactive.

On the school side, there is need for tuition offset. Each student in our school – even those who pay full tuition – are still receiving financial aid as tuition does not cover student costs. Any assistance is appreciated. On the school website you can go to the AMAZON Wish list and make a purchase there.

Here is a list of opportunities. Thank you for whatever you can do to assist us offset our expenses this time of the year!

Fr. Garry

Church:

Digital System $3,250    
Digital Mixer $700          
Wireless Mike System (3) $1000                         

Chasubles $1,200 (each)              
Dalmatics $1,250 (each)               
Church Supplies – any amount

Icons: 
St. Michael $250  
St. Raphael $250              
St. Gabriel $250     
Our Lady of the Rosary $250
St. Mark $250                 
St. Elizabeth $250           
St. Timothy $250     
Mother Cabrini $75       

School: (ANY SIZE GIFT)

Annual Fund      
Pre-School Development             
Basic School Supplies              
Amazon Wish List

Health and Safety:

Cameras $2,500               
New secure external doors/Electronic systems (8) - $2,500 (each)
Additional AED devices (2) $2500 (each)               
Parking Lot Project (any size gift)