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Annual Catholic Appeal Update

In his Lenten message, the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI wrote concerning charity or almsgiving as the best way to live the forty days of Lent. He reminds us that there is more joy in giving then receiving (Acts 20:35). St. Paul tells us that charity done out of love expresses the truth of our being: we have been created for God and for our brothers and sisters (2 Cor 5:15). In almsgiving we discover that the fullness of life comes from love and all is returned to us as a blessing in the form of inner satisfaction, peace and joy. Finally the Holy Father mentions that his predecessor Saint Peter wrote that “charity covers a multitude of sins” (I Peter 4:8)

It’s possible that our earlier Lenten resolutions lay dormant but it’s not too late if we accept the Scriptural mandate regarding charity. Certainly it was the primary hallmark of the Lord’s life. If we are still searching for an appropriate Lenten “penance” might I suggest a charitable gift and one that begins at home but assists many? The Annual Appeal comes at a most appropriate time.

As of March 3rd. 2008, Our Lady of Mercy Parish had 1,185 registered parishioners. This does not include people who regularly worship here but who are not registered. By March 3rd, 77 family units (which include your parish priests) have contributed to this year’s Appeal; however that is the equivalent of 6.5% of the registered parishioners. And those generous people have already pledged $31,645.00 against our goal of $64,200. I thank them profoundly.

Please remember that this Appeal is used in a manner highly appropriate to the Church’s mission of preaching and celebrating the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ throughout our Diocese of Brooklyn (& Queens). First it assists parishes that through no fault of their own can no longer survive on their own resources. Secondly it helps to provide some scholarships for children attending our parochial schools. Children in Our Lady of Mercy School have benefited from these funds. Thirdly it provides scholarships for our seminary students (theologians who are in the final phase of training, which is the five year theology and pastoral program after the completion of college).

The Appeal assists other Diocesan programs but those outlined above are most significant to me because of my own service in the priesthood. Like all priests, I was trained in the four or five year post-college major seminary (theologate). Though costs were much lower four decades ago; yet all of us entered priestly ministry in debt. After ordination I served at various times as Vocation Director and also as the administrator of an inner city parish. Throughout these thirty-six years, I have consistently seen how difficult it is, especially for parents of modest means, to offer a Catholic school education to their children.

Finally if we exceed our Goal the balance returns to us. At “Mercy” we do not have many fund raisers. View the Appeal as one of them! Our funds are fast being depleted in the ordinary operation of our parish and school and their programs. Several more major repair projects, like the Church roof, will deplete everything. In helping the Appeal, you are helping your parish wherein you celebrate the divine mysteries. In assisting the Appeal, we assist our selves and our brothers and sisters throughout Brooklyn and Queens.

If you have not made a pledge, envelopes are at all the doors of the Church. Many thanks and the hope of God’s continued blessings.

Monsignor John A .McGuirl

Our Lady Of Mercy 2007 Financial Statements

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Last modified: 01/04/09