THE PARISH OF SAINT MARY A Catholic Community Proclaiming the Greatness of God in our Time
ANNUAL REPORT OF STEWARDSHIP Calendar Year 2014 / Fiscal Year July 1, 2014— June 30, 2015
One Phalanx Road Colts Neck, NJ 07722 www.stmaryscoltsneck.org
THE COMMUNITY AT SERVICE Reverend Fr. Jeffrey E. Lee, MDiv, MA, ThM Fifth Pastor
Stewardship as a Way of Life! participation in our liturgical life, how choices represent core beliefs and how all of this is moving our parish forward. The principles of stewardship help us to shape a vision of life rooted in the reality of our blessings. When we see ourselves as being blessed, all is understood in a different way. Blessings root us in the understanding that God is the source of these blessings. We are called to share our blessings as faithful stewards. Sharing our time, talent and treasure is not something that we do, but it is a way of becoming stakeholders in the mission.
Last year, we presented this Report of our Stewardship to our parishioners, benefactors and friends. I asked all of us to reflect on the importance of excellence in our lives, our church and our society. The choice of excellence over indifference or mediocrity has been repeated throughout the year in our universal church and in our secular society, especially concerning our care for children, immigrants and the elderly. As you browse these pages and hopefully take the time to read them, our parish staff and leaders present an overview of the Calendar Year 2014 and the Fiscal Year 1 July 2014 – 30 June 2015. Among the many advances achieved, I am most pleased to report that we have made significant strides in restoring our support for the poor and needy through a variety of local, regional, national and international charitable appeals. This work is never completed. Thank you for your generous and sacrificial giving of your time, talent and treasure.
Catholic Stewards are stakeholders in the parish and are willing to invest of themselves in the mission. Our mission at The Parish of Saint Mary is to gather regularly for Sacred Worship, form our Community in the teachings of our Church, provide Charitable Assistance to those in need and build Community through our welcoming and hospitality. This past year has marked a shift for some from being on the periphery to moving more toward the center of our communal life. As stakeholders, we are willing to invest our time, talent and treasure in meaningful ways which builds up the community of faith diffusing those who attempt to create divisions within our ranks. As stakeholders, we are nourished weekly at the Table of the Lord listening to the Word of God proclaimed and preached and then processing to receive the Lord in the Eucharist.
This year, I wish to build upon that theme of choosing excellence over mediocrity and indifference. Being deliberate Catholics has never been an easy choice. These days present many challenges to our Catholic Faith. It is expected, perhaps, when we emerge from the safe and secure environment of our house of worship that we enter a world that is somewhat hostile to the message of the Gospel. The world, secular media, the reality of instant sensationalism through a variety of portals via the internet continue to challenge us in how we share Catholic Teaching and transmit faith from one generation to the next. However, what is more startling to me is the adversarial or suspicious tone of some within our communion of faith. I have experienced this first hand and know that members of the parish staff have as well. As I pray about this, listen to others and observe behaviors in the everyday comings and goings, I have not gained any great insight as to what is the root cause. Is the tone suspect or behavior?
I invite you to take some time to read the following pages that have been prepared by our staff for you. It is my hope that as you learn more about our parish and the progress we are making, you will consider becoming more involved as a stakeholder in our parish as we continue to move forward. THANK YOU for all that you do for our parish community. May God continue to bless you and your family for the sacrifices that you make for others. May our parish community continue to be an icon of hope as we begin another year together. We pray that through the intercession of Mary, Seat of Wisdom, our parish will continue to be a place of welcoming and hospitality for all who are searching for holiness and truth. Peace!
The past year, I have seen many of our parishioners take a serious look at where they are as individuals and as families in regard to their prayer life, their 2
WORSHIP and EVANGELIZATION REPORT Deacon Vincent Rinaldi Pastoral Associate The Catechism of the Catholic Church, quoting from the well as the variety of artwork used in the Christ and Vatican II Document ‘Lumen Gentium,’ reminds us Lenten Chapels during the Seasons of Advent and Lent. clearly that the Eucharist is “the Source and Summit of Liturgical Ministry: Positive comments have been the Christian life.” In other words, our spirituality made in terms of the clarity and quality of our Readers, lows from the Eucharist as source and all of our acthe reverence and pro iciency of our Extraordinary tions are directed towards the Eucharist as summit; a Ministers of Holy Communion and our Altar Servers two way interaction which takes place at Mass (for who in turn have expressed their joy, pride and appremost the Sunday Celebration of Eucharist and others at ciation of the importance of their service. In terms of daily Mass). In other words, we are not ‘going to growth per ministry, overall progress has been made, church’ rather, we are ‘coming to worship’ together however, we are still short in meeting what is deemed and we are coming to ‘share in the Eucharist’ together, necessary. A good portion of growth has come from putting it in a better and more accurate perspective. new parishioners upon joining our parish as they reRegarding weekend Mass attendance, the Annual ceive the steady message and importance of StewardDiocesan “October Count,” as well as interim informal ship. However, we are all Stewards whether we are counts, tell us that weekly Mass attendance at The Parnew to the parish or have been members for many ish of Saint Mary has remained steady with a slight upyears. We are all called to share our blessings of time, tick, going against the tide of decline that most churchtalent, and treasure. In reviewing each ministry, we es are facing. There has been a de inite and noticeable begin with Altar Servers. The total of twenty (20) has increase in youth attendance, the future of our parish dropped to eighteen (18) due to some of the seasoned and our Church. Servers retiring We continue focusing our attention on the quality of (moving on to high the Sunday Liturgy as well as the celebration of Solemschool or away to nities and Feast Days, particularly our Patroness, college) as well as, the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph Patron of the Uninew Servers joining versal Church, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Patrick, and St. the parish. At irst Blaise, to name a few, along with civic holidays. glance, this decrease Memorials of Liturgical items such as vestments, might be cause for vessels, and candlesticks given in the name of loved alarm; however, the ones continues at a steady pace. These memorials Servers’ consistency in their service has increased, have enabled us to honor the requests of many and at serving at more Masses per scheduling cycle. With the the same time allow us to serve each of the liturgical exception of the 12noon Mass, most Masses have been seasons and solemnities in a different and unique attended by two (2) Altar Servers with the goal of manner, providing worshippers with a deeper and three (3). Further, their duties have expanded, includmore profound worship experience. ing assisting at the Sunday 5:00 pm Mass, Con irmaParishioner feedback is important. Assistance in the tion and Nuptial Ceremonies. Because growth in faith decision-making process must begin at an early age, we will begin meeting with and the feedback we have some of our 3rd graders and their parents starting in received regarding the the Fall to begin the process of welcoming and training changes made has been new Altar Servers. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy overwhelmingly positive. A Communion has grown from a group of 64 to 84. Cergreat appreciation has been tain Masses where Mass attendance has increased, for expressed to us, for example, instance the 10:00 am, will soon require two additionof our use of the Sanctus al Host ministers, and so the increase in this ministry Bells and incense, variety of will accommodate that need. Coverage of the 12:00 vestments and vessels, the noon Mass continues to be a challenge as well as the donated Cruci ix in place seasonal 5:00 pm Sunday Mass which is fairly well during Lent, the beauty and reverence of The Lenten attended, with many young families. It is interesting to Chapel with new Altar and Stations of the Cross, as note that some new parishioners have chosen this as
3
WORSHIP and EVANGELIZATION their preferred Mass, and have also joined Ministries. Our Reader Ministry has grown to twenty-seven (27) Readers in total, up from twenty-one, thanks in part to New Parishioner Orientation as well as the Ministry Leaders direct contact with people. A desired goal would be at least thirty-two (32), so again, great progress has been made. As with most ministries, it would be ideal if more young adults would become involved. With many of our high school graduates going away to college, this can be challenging. Public speaking is an excellent skill and many take their irst steps at Church. As you are reading this report, if someone comes to mind, please recommend this ministry opportunity to them. Our Greeter Ministry is the welcoming face of The Parish of Saint Mary and we have fourteen (14) members in total. As said before and worth repeating, we are ALL greeters, and our reputation has been bene itting us with this approach. Let’s all adopt the spirit many businesses have; when you see someone within range, greet them! One simple act of kindness can go a long way! The Usher Ministry is a vital ministry that would bene it by additional steady members. Although there are thirtyseven (37) listed volunteers, the actual amount is probably about half that, due to various factors including work related travel, vacations, illness and schedule availability. The goal is to have enough Ushers each week attending Masses to assist parishioners with seating, collection, bulletin dissemination and tidying up the pews and book racks for the following Mass.
al opportunities, with which one will I share my time and talent. Contact us. In regard to new parishioners, those living outside of ‘07722’ are asked to meet with Michele McCue and me to discuss their reasons for joining The Parish of Saint Mary as opposed to their local parish. Also discussed is the importance of their involvement in parish life, Mass attendance and stewardship. This has worked out well in accepting those who are seriously committed to becoming a part of the parish. We must remember there is only one priest assigned to our parish community, and as pastor of souls there is much responsibility. We have a small staff but we must be prudent in utilizing our resources and at the same time not overextending ourselves. It is increasingly dif icult to attend to the spiritual needs of parish membership all over Monmouth County. In terms of clergy, priests and deacons, it’s important to note that continuing education is required and urged, which includes Annual Convocations and directed retreats, workshops, bible study as well as spiritual and homiletic resources, all of which have been provided. As prescribed by the ive Diocese of the State of New Jersey, all visiting clergy (priests and deacons) wishing to minister in any capacity such as weddings, funerals, baptisms, and Mass are required to submit in advance Testimonials of Suitability signed by their Bishop and addressed to our Bishop stating that they are in good standing. This is strictly enforced.
Music Ministry: Over the course of the last year, we have doubled choir appearances from roughly twenty (20) times per year to forty (40) times per year. The choir and cantor programs have been uniied, where music is consistent at each Mass across the Mass schedule. The Universal Mass setting of the Roman Missal was successfully taught to the congregation and incorporated as the Mass setting for Ordinary Time I & II. The Marian Hand-bell Choir has gained membership, as has the Magni icat (Adult) Choir. We have added three (3) new cantors who have gone through rigorous training and study to the weekend rotation and have had multiple cantor training sessions throughout the year to encourage leadership, fellowship, and growth. Additionally, the Religious Education Summer Intensive music offering, ‘Intro to Music,’ led to new members joining the Caritas Youth Schola and piqued the interest of children and parents alike. Each choir has studied church music across the centuries: from Gregorian
During the course of the year, Liturgical Ministry offered various training and informational workshops (Usher, Altar Server, Sacristan and Church Dé cor) during the ‘Project CARE Program’. The Usher and Altar Server sessions were attended by existing ministers, and some new at the Altar Server’s gathering. As for those workshops addressing church dé cor and ‘sacristan’ duties, the only people in attendance at these two new sessions were the existing volunteers, no new people for which we had hoped. Stewardship is a way of life, rooted in the bible, recognizing God’s graces received and giving back time, talent, and treasure. A mindset of ‘coming to worship,’ ‘coming to Eucharist’ is quite different than ‘going to church.’ As you read this, ask yourself, with so many ministeri4
WORSHIP and EVANGELIZATION chants of the early church to Renaissance and Classical Motets, Taize Chants, and contemporary contributions by our organist. All have been incorporated into the Mass throughout the year for the appropriate occasion. We have also contracted with outside musicians to bring the highest quality standard of Catholic worship to Mass. From brass to strings, the addition of the instrumentation adds to the beauty and dignity of Mass as well as everyone’s church experience. Seasonal worship aids and worship aids for individual Solemnities and other church sacramental services and functions are provided for you. These aids add to the active participation of the congregation. The Music Ministry has been given a rehearsal space where choirs and cantors alike are able to warm up and rehearse before Mass (unless capacity is exceeded). This space as well provides storage for over twenty (20) seasonal/occasional worship aids.
Ministries of Outreach: Men’s Morning Of ice meets on Thursday mornings and has increased by about ive (5) members to about thirty (30) members. Women’s Morning Of ice, meeting on Friday mornings has also increased to seventeen (17) members in total. Last year, our Ministry of Care comprised of ifteen (15) volunteers in total, brought Eucharist to ten (10) parishioners who are homebound. In addition, care volunteers continue to visit Hospitals and assisted living facilities such as Brandywine, CareOne, Monmouth Crossing and Madison Rehabilitation, bringing Eucharist, as well as ministry of prayer and presence. Our Lazarus Ministry, whose service is invaluable in the event of a death, has assisted in planning thirty-two (32) funerals and one (1) Memorial Service as well as in the planning and staf ing of the Annual Mass of Remembrance held on or about All Souls Day. Ministry of Consolation is there to assist those grieving after the funeral is over and family and friends have gone back to their daily routine. Last year, they assisted twenty-one (21) people in total. Singles Journey, a ministry dedicated to all singles, divorced, widowed, never married has assisted twenty (20) people in total in their ministry of sharing and caring for those who are single due to life’s circumstances. The Prison Ministry, consisting of men and women, ive (5) members in total, continue their Tuesday and Friday visits to the NJ State Prison in Trenton as Christ teaches, ministering to the spiritual needs of 5
eighty (80) prisoners bringing Eucharist, spiritual materials, and hope to the forgotten members of society.
The Parish of Saint Mary has aided countless families in the following ways: St. Vincent de Paul Society, distribution of 208 Thanksgiving Baskets, Monthly Food Collection Program, Christmas Sponsor-a-Family, over 810 gifts through the Advent Tree of Love, Blanket Sunday, Birthright, Sponsor-a-Student, Providence Clinic, Environmental Awareness, Mercy Center, and Open Door. Efforts through our Social Concerns Ministry has aided 112 families with housing and utilities.
Other/Technology: From a ministerial standpoint, the use of new technology has assisted us in serving the needs of the parish much more ef iciently. Voice messages left are automatically emailed as an audio ile giving us the option of responding quickly in the event of a real emergency. Access to and sharing of Sacramental and Clergy schedules with electronic devices assists in planning of Worship as well as Weddings and Baptisms. The use of new and better technology has also assisted in twenty-one (21) people quickly receiving the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, as well the planning of funerals.
The items covered are what I would call the more prominent ones, noticeable to the average weekend worshipper. However, much more takes place during the week which goes unnoticed, such as daily Mass, setting up of all Masses, the Lenten Chapel, and other Liturgical events such as weddings, funerals, baptisms and events we host. Then there is the changing of the Liturgical Seasons, each requiring its unique set of vessels, vestments, Altar Cloths, and dé cor; overseeing of host, wine, candle, incense, and charcoal inventory and then the household chores such as washing and ironing of puri icators and albs, care of vestments and vessels, illing and care of Holy Water fonts, candles, candle-wax, just to name a few. As you digest all of the information you have just read, please know that this could not have been accomplished without the work of many dedicated ‘stakeholders’ who put in a lot of their own time, talent, and at times treasure. We sincerely thank all for their service and dedication. At the same time, let this overview serve as an invitation for you to become an active part in one of these ministries.
CHARITABLE APPEALS: Renewing Our Commitment to the Poor & Needy The categories listed below are funded primarily through Parish Tithing of net proceeds from: Fundraising Efforts, The Christmas & Easter Collections, Restricted Gifts…with additional funding provided from the Sunday Stewardship Offerings to offset needed revenue.
$ 34,425
Direct Support
208 Thanksgiving Baskets & monthly food dona ons
Food Collections
Adopt a Family ( Sponsor and Adopt Combined)
$ 25,400
Tree of Love (810 gifts @ $25.00 per)
$ 20,250
Emergency Assistance
$ 1,500 $ 19,320
Direct Charitable Appeals
Non-Diocesan Collections
$ 19,500
By providing adequate meeting space, The Parish of Saint Mary generously hosts a number of community based self-help, occupational therapy, social service, ecumenical prayer and personal enrichment programs. This would not be possible without the generous sacri icial stewardship of our parishioners to maintain our physical facilities.
2014
Annual Catholic Appeal
Parish Goal: $ 71,276 Pledged $ 56,965
Amount Collected: $ 56,182.26
Number of Gifts: 267
Avg. Gift: $ 210.42 6
FACILITIES REPORT Joseph Noble Pastoral Coordinator Yes, another very busy and productive twelve months has passed on our campus as it pertains to buildings, grounds and facilities. Last year, we were “putting out ires” and paying for the lack of preventive maintenance that was not performed. Thankfully, for the most part, we have now moved beyond that point and are consciously becoming more pro-active in both our planning and budgeting. Below is a glimpse at the projects that have been completed or are in the process:
Helen DeCerce for cleaning the ambo which was given to our parish when the church building was irst erected and used for many years; to Drew Weber for the altar which he fabricated, to John Rivell for assisting us with some painting and wall repair and to the Parish Sewing Ministry for the altar cloths. This year throughout the Lenten season, we had chosen to decorate our parish church with a cruci ix hung on the reredos of the sanctuary. This hand carved wooden corpus was donated by a bona- ide parishioner. The RELOCATION OF PARISH OFFICES: We relocated all cross was fabricated and set into place by local conparish of ices into one tractor John Kling and his crew. The fabric panel was common area moving from upholstered by our Parish Sewing Ministry. The image the “of ice model” to the of the Risen Christ returned for the Easter Season and “workstation model” pro- will remain until Lent 2016. Two credenzas were viding greater oversight, placed in the rear of the church building to provide accountability, team work needed storage for our sacred worship. These were and communication. We did custom made by one parishioner, granite tops donatthis so that all staff would ed by another and material and labor costs donated be in close proximity in or- by another. A retractable Nana wall unit replaced the der to maximize communication and build a culture of permanent wall. This has given us a great deal of lexiteam work in an environment of accountability. With bility and increased our seating capacity which is esthe relocation came a change of our parish of ice work pecially needed during the Christmas and Easter seaschedule and hours of operation. This adjustment was sons. Lastly, our Baptismal font was given a much another direct result from last year’s listening sessions needed facelift. as well as information that has been gathered for the past decade or so. It is our hope that these expanded CARE OF GROUNDS: We want to acknowledge all and refocused times will enable our parishioners to those parishioners, representing every age group, for come and conduct parish business directly with our staff the awesome care of our parish grounds. So many personnel. The expanded times are Monday through have been present pulling weeds and maintaining the Thursday from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm and Sunday from gardens so beautifully. We are blessed to have such a 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. This enables our parishioners, es- beautiful site for our parish community to come topecially those who are working outside of the home, to gether for worship, faith formation, community buildhave access to the parish of ice. We can now see and un- ing and outreach. These 25 acres are a visible sign of derstand how important it is for the various pastoral the faith that we share to all who visit us or pass by on work groups to share space, increase communication their way. It is our hope that we will continue to reand respond to the many requests that are made. We sponsibly care for “our home” so that it will be a place will continue to make improvements as we are able in of prayer for all those who seek the face of the Lord. In order to better serve our parishioners and be the best the fall of 2014, we began a signi icant pruning of stewards of the resources that are being entrusted to us. trees and shrubs. This is necessary periodically to in CHURCH AND NEW LENTEN CHAPEL: During the sure that the roots grow proportionally to the height. We will continue this year and the following years unLenten season, the partil the pruning has been completed. Additionally, we ish hall was converted will transplant some tree specimens. Trees that are into our Lenten Chapel. part of our of icially iled site plan and have been cut This was done to accomdown or removed throughout the past 8 years will be modate an increased re-planted so that we remain good stewards of the number of participants environment as well as the overall appearance of our for the daily Mass as property within Colts Neck. During the month of Nowell as for the Friday vember, we had the opportunity to plant 25 trees evening Way of the throughout our parish property. Some of these are Cross. We are grateful to 7
FACILITIES new additions. Most are replacing trees that had been Jeff has been travelling to and living in an apartment. damaged during the past 10 years or so. It is important for us to maintain these plantings as we GROTTO/PRAYER GARDEN: We have begun the continue to make our parish property a welcoming long overdue work to the Grotto of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Peace Garden. Among the work is stabilizing and inviting the stone of the grotto and treating those areas that place for all have been damaged due to tree roots. Water lines, electhose who tric lines, iber optic lines, a new well, automated irricome here. gation, a safe walkway, new root appropriate plantings, Special etc. are all part of this project. This work is being fundthanks to Mr. ed by a Charitable Bequest in memory of Catherine Ed Brock, Sr. “Kitty” Pancetti. The work is not being funded through for graciousour general operating funds. If all goes well, the work ly donating most of the trees that we had planted. We are lucky to should be completed by the time you read this article. have been able to sponsor Boy Scouts, Nick Peckyno Come visit our beautiful new grotto and prayer garden. You will be pleasantly surprised. and Tommy Zita, who are attempting to earn their Ea gle Scout status by preparing the soil, planting shrubs CATHOLIC CHILD CARE CENTER: Following a and grasses and putting down a weed barrier in our presentation to the members of our Pastoral and parking lot islands. This is another way we are able to Finance Councils, Building & Grounds committee and work together with the community. I hope you have our Trustees by Future Generation Early Learning Cennoticed the new sod we have added to both the front ter, it was unanimously agreed that we move forward of the church and our courtyard area in the rear. With in a partnership with this not for pro it organization to all of these new plantings and the additional grass, we develop a child care program based on our parish site. have had to increase our lawn irrigation system and The primary reason for this expansion of our formahave done so with some foresight for the future as tional and educational program is to evangelize famiwell. Together, we will continue to care for these lies with young children by providing a caring faith beautiful 25 acres as a place of prayer, worship and based environment for their children. The program community building. will be for children ages 2.5 – 6 years. There will be PARISH HOUSE: The saga continues. As you might several options available. The program will be curricuremember, when we began to properly clean the lum based and fully certi ied. Future Generation will administer the childcare program with our parish rehouse, a serious mold issue was discovered in the lowsourcing the program’s religious and liturgical forer level which necessitated the removal of all basemation component. We are grateful to all those who ment interior walls. This uncovered even further water problems. We had a full assessment of the parish have assisted in the process to date and for all those house mold issue thanks to parishioner Lisa Aldridge who are encouraging us to move forward in order that and that report con irmed various types of mold and we might continue to evangelize and welcome these degrees of mold are present throughout the parish young families into our community. Further details can house on every level (i.e. basement; irst loor; attic be obtained by calling Future Generation at 732-780areas; all HVAC ductwork and returns). We contracted 0135 or on the web at www.fgkids.org. with another independent contractor to con irm these EXTRA TOPICS: Our energy saving initiatives are indings and con irm they did. We then met with repcontinuing with the replacement of some older therresentatives from our Insurance Company, the Diocemostats and the constant monitoring of them, convertsan Building Commission and the Diocesan Expansion ing light ixtures to higher ef iciency, additional light & Restructuring Commission to develop the focus and sensors and replacing all HVAC ilters quarterly as well parameters of our local planning. The decision was to as routine maintenance being provided. Of course our demolish the existing parish house and rebuild a new Solar Farm continues to operate very ef iciently and one on the current site. Plans were submitted to the saves us approximately $20,000.00 each year. As a reDiocesan Building Commission, our Pastoral Council, minder, No parish funds were spent on this project. We Finance Council, Building & Grounds and Trustees and continue to clean out many storage areas within the the plans were approved. We are currently in the promain complex and other areas of the property. We are cess of getting all the required approvals from state establishing inventory lists, organizing products in and local government agencies. In the interim, Father storage areas as well as making additional storage are8
FACILITIES as available. We are fortunate to have 8 garage bays for vehicles, equipment and storage. These garage bays have loft storage areas as well. We will continue to organize these areas and to remove trash and other items. Some site plan choices made in the past have compromised some foundations and the deterioration of the metal siding that wrap the outside of these structures. We are establishing protocols for storing objects and products in order to minimize rodent issues as we move forward. We are using both Madonna Hall and the Theater much more regularly than in the past. The sound systems in both areas needed some major attention. Madonna Hall needs all of the components replaced and upgraded to include some wireless technology. The theater needs a complete overhaul including the speakers which are “disintegrated.” Last year, we were able to begin to upgrade the projection capabilities and WiFi connectivity. We will continue these upgrades and begin to upgrade the sound systems throughout our site.
You have to admit it, we are lookin’ good!
Next Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Here are some projects that are in the works or on the drawing board for next year: • The removal of some compromised concrete along the front of the church. This is needed so that we can install hand rails for all to use especially during the winter months. Last year, we had many people of all ages slip and fall. This will greatly assist us in making our facilities both welcoming and safe for parishioners and visitors. • Further beauti ication of our property especially in the parking lot areas. • The building of a suitable new Parish House for all parishioners to enjoy and be proud of. • Expanded compliance in the protection of our children and young people. This may include use of cameras and other security measures.
Catholic Childcare Services Future Generation Early Learning Center • • • • • • • • • •
Open Monday-Friday 6:30 am-6:30 pm Full/Part time scheduling options Now enrolling children 2.5 to 6 years of age Mother’s Day out (3 times a week 2 hours a day) Certified Professional Teaching Staff Over 20 years experience in child care operation and administration Follows High Scope curriculum www.highscope.org Use of technology daily in the classroom Online Parent-Teacher communications via downloadable app: Portfolios, daily sheets and email reports Supplemental Activities: Dual Language Learning (Spanish), Computers, Music, and Yoga
ROLLING REGISTRATION: Enroll your child any me during the year and at which me they reach the age of admission.
Mission of FG at Saint Mary Parish is to provide high quality, loving, childcare & education in conjunction with Catholic religious studies. Maria Thompson, Director 732-780- 0135 9
www.fgkids.org
[email protected]
FISCAL OVERVIEW Year Ending June 30, 2015 Susan Lambert CPA Reported Results * for Fiscal year July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015 of $124,432 of surplus revenue over expenses was favorable to both budget and the prior year. Highlights of the year’s financial results are:
• • • • •
Total Sunday offertory declined compared to the prior year partially resulting from reduced attendance due to inclement weather especially during the month of February. Religious Education fees increased because of student re-registration and the initiation of additional fees for late registrants. Increased revenue from fundraising mainly the result of the “Love Thy Neighbor” event. A bequest of $200,000 was donated to renovate the Grotto & surrounding grounds. Expenses for the Grotto were part of extraordinary expenses and were off set by the bequest. A $50,000 restricted donation was received to be applied against prior year’s unpaid bills.
Year over year, bottom line results of $89,175 loss in fiscal year ending June 2014 vs $124,432 surplus in fiscal year ending June 30, 2015 resulted in an improvement of $213,607 of reported results. Principal mortgage payments of $86,015 brought the mortgage balance to $213,945. Capital additions of $75,128 included equipment/interior work of offices and furniture, fixtures resulted in a negative of $36,711. The improved results allows the parish to gradually reduce the outstanding prior year’s unpaid bills. In the past several years, progress has been made improving the financial condition of the parish, however, to make The Parish of Saint Mary solvent we need to consider:
• • • •
Increase weekly offertory giving Expand the use of online giving to steady revenue when families are out of town or when Mass attendance declines when we experience inclement weather. Consider bequests or legacy gifts to the parish The increased revenue would allow for continued funding of annual operation; the reduction of our debt obligations and continue to provide for ongoing maintenance of our parish facilities.
*Reported results are prepared on an accrual method of accounting whereby expenses are recognized when they occurred rather than when actually paid.
FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2015 PARISH REVENUES
PARISH EXPENSES
Employee Expense 38.0%
Offertory (Inc. Christmas and Easter) 65.0%
Facility Maintenance and Supplies 35.2%
Bequests 15.8%
Diocesan Assessment & Catholic School Support 11.4%
Fundraising-----Golf, 50/50 etc. 8.5%
Other Expenditures 9.6%
Religious Education Tuition 7.1%
Charitable Giving / Special Collections 5.1%
Other Receipts 3.6%
Mortgage Interest 0.7% 10
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL OPERATIONS Fiscal Year: 1 July 2014—30 June 2015
REVENUES Offertory Weekly Offerings Christmas Easter Mortgage Collec on Charitable Giving Special Collec ons --Missions, etc. Total Offertory
Actual FYE 6/30/14
Budget FYE 6/30/15
Actual FYE 6/30/15
Budget FYE 6/30/16
$
$
$
$
Fundraising-----Golf, 50/50, LTN Religious Educa on Tui on Bequests/Restricted Dona ons Mass S pends & Stole Fees Bulle n Revenue Candle Revenue from Gro o Other Receipts
736,493 101,394 68,715 62,747 36,342 15,500 1,021,191
$
102,470 98,510 35,308 18,000 7,050 202 1,282,731
EXPENSES Salaries & Wages Employee Benefits Diocesan Assessment & Catholic School Support Materials and Supplies Building & Grounds Maintenance Mortgage Interest Payments Extraordinary Expenses Charitable Giving Special Collec on Disbursements Property and Liability Insurance U li es Professional Fees Other Expenditures Total Expenses Surplus / (Deficit)
TOTAL RECEIPTS
775,000 95,000 65,000 60,000 50,000 16,000 1,061,000
$
109,000 85,000 28,500 14,000 8,000 1,305,500
$
510,405 151,856 160,763 163,422 140,810 14,000 14,452 53,664 15,500 32,331 53,017 37,315 24,371 1,371,906
$
(89,175)
724,908 108,274 76,034 60,151 42,675 19,500 1,031,542
$
135,368 111,935 250,000 33,220 14,000 10,972 88 1,587,125
$
441,952 112,589 183,425 154,000 134,250 10,430 50,842 60,000 16,000 38,681 50,500 35,700 28,036 1,316,405
$
442,308 113,569 166,601 157,073 122,843 10,585 234,654 55,245 19,500 32,057 58,613 32,866 16,779 1,462,693
$
(10,905)
$
$
113,000 100,000 50,000 27,750 14,000 8,000 85 1,391,335
$
462,545 96,034 173,019 185,000 169,500 10,500 50,000 60,000 19,500 42,758 56,700 37,200 26,250 1,389,006
124,432 * $
2,329
2014/2015 FINANCIAL CONSOLIDATION SUMMARY Opera onal income as of 6/30/15 Mortgage Principal Payments 7/1/14-6/30/15 Capital Addi ons 7/1/14-6/30/15
$
124,432* (86,015) (75,128)
Annual Deficit
$
(36,711)
11
775,000 102,000 72,000 60,000 50,000 19,500 1,078,500
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL OPERATIONS
Calendar Year: 1 January 2014 thru 31 December 2014
Calendar Year 2014 Stewardship Offering All Funds: Sunday, Mortgage, Christmas & Easter
# Households
Total
$26,000 to 10,000.01
3
$ 62,125.00
$10,000 to 2,500.01
70
$277,368.00
$2,500 to 1,000.01
203
$318,818.00
$1000 to 400.01
279
$189,264.26
$400 to 100.01
302
$ 67,964.78
$100 to .01
352
$ 17,592.61
Zero
708
Households/ Families
900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100
-
$ 1,017,818.60
ZERO
$100 to $.01
Total Annual Offering
$400 to $100.01
$ 84,685.92
$1000 to $400.01
Checks and Loose CASH
$2,500 to $1,000.01
$ 933,132.65
$26,000 to $10,000.01
1917
$10,000 to $2,500.01
0
Total Ac ve
Annual Offering By Amount
Calendar Year Average Weekly Stewardship Excluding Christmas and Easter: Inclusive of on-line and envelope contributions
$50.00 to $30.01
71
$2,775.84
$30.00 to $20.01
89
$2,119.71
$20.00 to $15.01
77
$1,377.86
$15.00 to $10.01
99
$1,229.78
$10.00 to $.01
576
$1,976.28
ZERO
971
-
Weekly Stewardship Offering On-Line & Envelope
$ 708,922
Loose cash & checks
$ 71,177
Total CY2014 weekly (Divide by 51 weeks) Total weekly Average
$ 780,099 $ 15,296
1000 800 600 400
200
0
Average Weekly Offering Amount 12
ZERO
$2,091.67
$10.00 to $.01
30
$15.00 to $10.01
$100.00 to $50.01
$20.00 to $15.01
$ 542.84
$30.00 to $20.01
4
$50.00 to $30.01
$135.00 to $100.01
1200
$100.00 to $50.01
Total $ Avg/wk
$135.00 to $100.01
# Households
Households/ Families
$ Range
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL OPERATIONS Fiscal Year: 1 July 2014—30 June 2015 LIABILITIES 6/30/14 75,382 75,728 102,304 $ 253,414
Vendor accounts payable Dioscesan assessments Catholic school support Total
$
$
$
6/30/15 112,731 17,388 154,208 284,327
June 30, 2014 Diocesan assessment fully paid in fiscal year June 30, 2015 June 30, 2015 Diocesan assessment par ally paid in fiscal year June 30, 2015 Balance paid August 2015 (FYE 30 June 2016)
MORTGAGE Mortgage Balance as of July 1, 2014
$
299,960 (86,015)
Total Principal Payments - 2014/2015 $
Mortgage Balance as of June 30, 2015
213,945
Projected Mortgage Payoff: October 2017
CAPITAL ADDITIONS Plant Addi ons: Equipment/Interior Work of Offices Furniture & Fixtures
13
$
64,866 10,262
$
75,128
COMMUNITY BUILDING and COMMUNICATIONS REPORT Linda Dickinson-Pancila, MA Pastoral Coordinator The year passed so quickly and what a wonderful year; busy and successful in both the community building and communication cores due to increased ef iciency, creativity, and to the many parishioner volunteers of all ages who became involved in parish life. Many engaged in leadership roles within the community, planning and running an increased number of parish programs, special projects, fundraisers, and day to day parish of ice responsibilities. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the hundreds of volunteers that helped develop, enhance and further the vision and mission of the parish and the community building and communication cores. As volunteer coordinator for the parish, it has become increasingly clear that when we come together as a parish family in any aspect of parish life, the time we give and the talent and resources we share in our stewardship are truly vital to the continued growth and furtherance of the mission of our parish and that of the Catholic Church. The work you do, the time you give, the resources you share are meaningful, greatly needed and truly appreciated. What we achieve together could never be accomplished by one! The community building and communication cores hosted and supported many parish events, ministries, committees, programs, and outreach opportunities over the past year including: Parish Directory, Project CARE Program, New Parishioner Orientation, Love Thy Neighbor Bene it, Super 50/50, parish decorating and clean-up efforts, Halloween Halls, Thanksgiving and Christmas outreach efforts, The Advent Pancake Breakfast, Light Up a Memory, the Staff Epiphany Party, Couple’s Night Out, Palm Cross Weaving and Instruction, the Parish Mission and other formation endeavors, the Array of Hope Concert, Soup with Stations, the Easter Egg Hunt, Sr. Helen Clifton’s Retirement Party, the Sixth Annual Golf Outing and Summer Social, the “Soup”er-Bowl can collection, Project Backpack, Tai Chi, the Sewing Circle, Prayer Shawl Ministry, Hospitality Bakers, Agape, Environmental Committee, Adopt-A-Spot, Garden Club, Social Singles Committee, community service efforts, of ice volunteers, and communications of the Catholic Childcare Center.
tables donated by a bona ide parishioner (the perfect addition giving many a place to sit and talk while lightened the load for set-up and break-down) and increased participation from parish ministry, committee leaders and outside groups who shared information and opportunities on how they give their time/talent/resources in formation opportunities and outreach initiatives in the community. They also encouraged others to do the same. Thank you to the hospitality bakers, the music ministry, and parishioners who each hosted Agape one month last year. A special thank you to co-chairs Jack and Rorie Coppola, Bob Endlicher and all Agape volunteers for their commitment and coordination. If you have not been to Agape in a while please stop by, have a donut, bagel, piece of fruit, a cup of coffee/tea or other refreshment, strike up a conversation, visit a ministry/committee table, learn something new about your parish, meet a friend, offer a smile. Sit and stay a while! 2) Halloween Halls was organized by two teen volunteers, Emma Tucker and Geoff Bartner, desiring leadership hours for National Honor Society. Costumed children paraded through the parish buildings after 5pm Mass in October gathering treats provided by willing parishioners who decorated tables and meeting rooms. Aided by 10+ teen volunteers, participants also enjoyed themed games, crafts and refreshments made by parishioners. What a ine example of our young adults’ understanding of Stewardship to the parish and to the community and our willingness to come together to help them reach their goal. 3) The annual Advent Pancake Breakfast held in December and coordinated by chairs Maureen and Phil Valenziano was our largest community event featuring hospitality, great food, faith- illed seasonal crafts (created by Kim Boliver) and a visit from Santa. Over 600 parishioners and friends enjoyed a delicious breakfast prepared by hard working volunteers in the kitchen (men only) including: pancakes from over 18 gallons of batter, 105 dozen scrambled eggs, and 70 pounds of sausage. Many gallons of juice/coffee/tea were consumed along with 12 dozen bagels, 15 dozen doughnuts and trays of crumb cake. Volunteers including teens (receiving many accolades) helped with set-up and cleanup, kept serving lines moving and tables ready for a quick turnover. Remember to purchase your tickets in advance this year!! 4) The Easter Egg Hunt coordinated by chair Cathy Rinaldi and her committee (adults and over 23 youth volunteers) was held the Second Sunday of Easter immediately following the 12noon Mass. Over 100 children hunted for 1500 hidden eggs on parish grounds, completed faithilled crafts, took photos with the Easter Bunny and snuggled real bunnies. It was “egg”citing! 5) A past Lenten event, Soup and Bread with Stations of the Cross returned one Friday evening in Lent and was coordinated by chair
In the Realm of Parish Community Building: The mission of the Community Building Committee is to welcome and engage parishioners in parish life and to offer a variety of events to various segments of the parish population. This goal was achieved in the following ways: 1) Agape (often called donut Sunday) offered hospitality/fellowship on nine Sundays, expanded to include the summer months, moved outside to the courtyard utilizing six round light-weight
14
COMMUNITY BUILDING and COMMUNICATIONS special blessing of handmade items was held during Mass in October. All items were given to those in need, sick, grieving a loss or for other reasons. Members also attended a walk for Mary’s Place in Ocean Grove. Thank you chair Kathy Adleman and all for their ine work and to Jo Towne who ran four How to Loom Knitting workshops for Project CARE in 2014 and 2015.
Sue Coleman and PA Deacon Rinaldi. Parishioners shared a light meal of homemade meat free soup and bread then prayed The Way of the Cross together in the Lenten Chapel. Join us this coming Lent for two Soup and Stations events. 6) Couple’s Night Out was held in February in hon-
Switching gears to fundraising: 1) The SUPER 50/50, a major annual fund raiser for the parish, was under my oversight as chair in 2014 to help coordinate volunteers who illed the many job responsibilities such as: the parish mailing to over 1900 households, tracking returns, reminder phone calls to parishioners, bulletin announcements & ads, a post card mailing, thank you cards and selling tickets at the Colts Neck Fair and the Love Thy Neighbor Bene it event the evening of the drawing. A warm welcome to Roland Nardini, committee chair for the next three years. 2) Due to the generosity of Colts Neck resident, Abbey Feiler, The Love Thy Neighbor Bene it held on September 19, 2014 at her home (Abbey Farm in Colts Neck) was a tremendous success and raised much needed funds for parish outreach initiatives. More than 250 attendees enjoyed a delightful fun- illed evening including great food, spirits and services graciously donated by 17 local vendors keeping overhead very low. A special Thank You to committee chairs Suzanne Schlesinger, Emily Santangelo and Margaret Hernandez, vendors and the nearly thirty volunteers who helped make this bene it event a huge success. 3) The annual Golf Outing and Summer Social event held at Eagle Oaks Golf Club in June was again a great success, raising more funds than previously to supplement the parish’s operating budget and outreach initiatives. This year, sponsorship of the event increased with the addition of the irst ever “event sponsor” received from the Marchese family. Thank you to co-chairs Bill Lenahan and Fred Sorrentino and committee members for organizing sponsorship and the “sold-out” golf portion of the event. The day was damp and crisp, but no major complaints from the golfers who thoroughly enjoyed their rounds of golf. The dinner and community building portion of the event, Khakis and Cocktails, organized by chair Lisa Aldridge and her wonderful committee
or of married couples and in celebration of World Marriage Day. What a great event to celebrate Married Couples coordinated by co-chairs Maureen Staub, Denise Devaney and Diane Antico who provided a venue for married couples to socialize, dance and dine at a very low cost. 7) Five Parish Clean-up and planting events were held this past year. Four mini-events were run in conjunction with Project CARE to plant, pick weeds and trim back branches. A major Parish Clean-up scheduled for March but inally held in April due to the unpredictable weather, engaged nearly 100 volunteers who picked up leaves and fallen branches deposited on our beautiful grounds during the winter months. All participants were treated to hotdogs and refreshments. Without even realizing it, we all participated in National Volunteer Week which encouraged “people to seek out imaginative ways to engage in their communities… demonstrating to the nation that by working together, we have the fortitude to meet our challenges and accomplish our goals.” Thank you to all those who gave of their time, talent, and resources of equipment and tools to make all clean-ups a major success as well as saved many dollars in maintenance costs. Join us this fall for our next parish clean-up event. 8) The parish Sewing Circle worked on many liturgical projects skillfully producing ablution cloths and three beautiful altar cloths for Lent and Easter. The ministry also covered a 9’ hoop with fabric that was the backdrop for the cruci ix that hung on the wall behind the sanctuary. Fifty (50) communion puri icators were sewn and embroidered as a gift from our parish to Holy Cross Parish, Rumson. In addition to the completion of regular and special projects, the ministry also held three parish sewing workshops (dog beds, quilt tops currently being sewn into blankets by ministry members, and adding the inishing touches to 150 Spiritual Adoption Ministry squares crocheted/knitted by the Prayer Shawl Ministry members). A special thank you to the dedicated committee members Kathe, Joan, Susan, Karen, and Deb for all their efforts. 9) Dedicated Prayer Shawl Ministry members crafted for donation 80 baby hats/caps, 11 prayer shawls, 5 lap robes, 18 scarves, 3 baby blankets/afghans, 86 squares for blankets sent to Knit-A-Square in So. Africa and 205 - 6” squares for The Spiritual Adoption Ministry. A 15
COMMUNITY BUILDING and COMMUNICATIONS
was a casual but elegant evening with great food, games and auction items. Thank you to all the sponsors (ad journal too!), volunteers, golfers, dinner attendees, and those who donated auction items. You all made this event a huge success!! Unfortunately, parish stewardship collections are not suf icient to support parish outreach initiatives, our direct inancial assistance to those in the community that are in need as well as cover our own parish operating, programming and ministry expenses. For this reason, parish fundraisers such as the SUPER 50/50, Annual Golf Outing and the Love Thy Neighbor Bene it are important and necessary.
mation to help improve parish life as well as tap into the membership population for special mailings, requests, reporting and dissemination of important information. 4) Print production: Continuing to reduce printing, advertising and visual communications costs, the core coordinated/designed/produced and advertised approximately 85% of parish communications and publications including: parish wide mailings, worship aids, parish notecards (used for thank you cards, invitations, Mass intentions), brochures, quad-folds, some offertory envelopes, posters, and lyers (for liturgical seasons, parish events, programs), Baptismal, First Eucharist and Con irmation certi icates and donation envelopes, parish envelopes, letterhead, journal In the Realm of Parish Communications: Continuing to ads and press releases, event tickets (Advent Breakfast, enhance and expand parish communications was again the Couples Night Out, Array of Hope Concert), the irst 20 page goal and was accomplished with the help of many especialStewardship Report which was mailed to each active paly Catherine Love, the other half of the communication rishioner household in January 2015 and new Stations of team, and the of ice volunteers: Charlotte, Barbara, the Cross for Lenten Chapel. 5) A new parish logo, in the Maureen, Susan, Arlene, Diane, Darryl, Johanna, Angela and works for many months, was unveiled in Jan 2015. Thank Gina. 1) The Parish Directory Project was one of the major you to parishioner, Stephanie Bartner, for her expertise and parish undertakings this year which commanded much stewardship. More traditional in design, the new logo’s time and attention. The project, still in production, could symbols are representative of The Parish of Saint Mary, her not have been accomplished without the dedicated compatroness the Virgin Mary and the community in which we mittee chairs and a team of 20+ volunteers who tirelessly are located. It uni ied the look and professionalism of all scheduled parishioners for photo sessions (Mar-Nov 2014) parish communications. 6) Work continues on updating and welcomed/checked-in parishioners at those sessions. and archiving of parish photographs and parish historical The next steps, included advertising and collecting opt-out data and the shredding of previously archived paperwork of personal information forms, updating parishioner privano longer needed. 7) Layout/content of the parish website cy settings, revising the parish history (post the Fr Bausch), continues to be updated aiding in the retrieval of inforsorting through the parish archives of photographs, updatmation about parish life, ministry, forms, tickets, Pay-pal ing and unifying the parish database and parishioner payment options, online giving and registration links. household membership information (in the midst of the 8) Patience in the transition of a new procedure for the Diocesan transition to a web based system), learning to use 2015 Mass Intention Book, aided in the successful implea new publishing program provided by Lifetouch to begin mentation of the improved process which included: inthe directory design and layout process, not to mention person appointments, a new form for the scheduling multiagreeing on the cover and content… Final steps include the ple Masses, and a new Request Mass Intention envelope. 9) proo ing process, publication and distribution of the inal The layout of the monthly e-newsletter (received by housecopy. Many apologies for the length of time it has taken for holds with an email address on ile) was improved to prothe completion of the directory project and to get all those vide the above mentioned information in a shorter, more who participated in the project a directory in hand. Directories are set to arrive shortly; they are in publication! visually appealing manner with much of the information being provided with links connecting to content on the par2) Parish communications were brie ly interrupted when ish website. 10) Looking ahead, social media outlets will be the parish of ices moved. All systems that affected parish investigated and utilized in the next iscal year, the parish communications (server, phone lines, computers, archives, Facebook account will be upgraded to a new version so to iles, etc…) were impacted. The parish is functioning better become a public page managed more effectively by many at than ever and more ef iciently, especially with the addition the parish rather than one. Out-dated social media accounts of many shared staff and volunteer workspaces and cenwill be taken down. tralized parish iles. New landlines were installed allowing
remote access to messages and emergency services when away from the buildings. Staff members received cell phones strengthening parish communication off campus and in cases of emergencies. Voicemail message can now be retrieved via wave iles. 3) Our parish was among the irst round of parishes in the Diocese to undergo the transition to a web-based database system. All I can note is that the transition was painful! The new system, centralized with the Diocese, can be accessed from any computer. The Diocese and parish are able to tap into the parish database more effectively retrieving much needed valuable infor-
As I quoted Rollo May last year, “Communication leads to Community….” Our passion to enhance parish communications will continue to foster a mutual understanding of each other and ultimately increase the value of the mission placed before us. Our understanding of each other and the work at hand will ultimately increase engagement in the parish community; that is more people involved in parish life, ministry and outreach efforts. It is up to each of us to make it happen! Our accomplishments this year at our Parish of Saint Mary is evidence of this dynamic occurring. Thank you! Peace and blessings to all!
16
STEWARDSHIP: BENEFITS of ON-LINE GIVING and TITHING Why consider the convenience of on-line giving: • • • • • • • • •
Convenient, simple and secure alternative to the weekly church envelopes or cash giving No need for writing checks • Option to remain anonymous Financial planning allows you to align your paychecks with your parish offertory schedule Support parish even if you are unable to attend Mass • Contribution amount is easily adjusted Automatic deductions from bank account/credit card Take advantage of programs such as airline mileage or cash bonuses with credit card option Make your parish a priority in budgeting - Avoid
compromising your good intentions by the pressure of expenses and billing cycles Bene it to Parish: Giving arrives on a designated day, in a designated amount, and is available for immediate use while simplifying bookkeeping and budgeting efforts. Offertory Cards can be provided to each online giving family if desired to be placed in the Offertory collection basket each weekend. Cards are recycled each weekend.
Sign up for Online Giving today: http://www.stmarycoltsneck.com/index.php/about-us/online-giving
SEEK THE RIGHT PATH God irst and foremost wants us. He loved us before we were born. What He wants most of all, is our time. This begins with prayer. We must give our time to God in prayer, and listen to what God wants of us. Secondly, He expects us to use our talents for the good of others and our parish. He expects us to actively participate in parish life with our many gifts. Finally, we are challenged to put our treasure in His hands, and be generous with the gifts God has given us. GIVING GUIDELINES FOR PRAYERFUL REFLECTION Of all the ways we are asked to be generous, giving from our treasure - giving money - can sometimes be the most challenging. God understands this. He calls us to tithe for this reason. Giving money to charity will do much good, but the most good it will do is free us from our attachment to money. This frees us to serve God and draw closer to Him. Tithing challenges us to see the difference between what we need and what we want. This is important for our spiritual well being. Tithing means giving 10% from our gross wages or income. We strive to give 5% to our parish, and 5% to the needs of the greater Church and world – other charities. Giving freely is an important tool to develop in our journey to draw closer to Christ. For most, it takes time to reach a full tithe.
Percentage Giving Step Chart Weekly
Challenge Giving
Discipleship Giving
Growth Giving
Entry Level Giving
Income
15%
12%
10%
9%
8%
7%
6%
5%
4%
3%
2%
1%
$500
75
60
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
$700
105
84
70
63
56
49
42
35
28
21
14
7
$800
120
96
80
72
64
56
48
40
32
24
16
8
$900
135
108
90
81
72
63
54
45
36
27
18
9
$1,000
150
120
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
$1,200
180
144
120
108
96
84
72
60
48
36
24
12
$1,500
225
180
150
135
120
105
90
75
60
45
30
15
$2,000
300
240
200
180
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
$3,000
450
360
300
270
240
210
180
150
120
90
60
30
17
FAITH FORMATION and LIFE LONG LEARNING REPORT Michele McCue, MA, Doctoral Candidate Pastoral Associate What an eventful and exciting year; it’s dif icult to know where to begin!!! First of all, the summer of 2014 marked the inaugural year of our Summer Intensive Religious Education program, which was available to children in Grades 3-6. Two two-week sessions were scheduled, each one running from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. Children were taught by certi ied Catholic school teachers who presented approximately one catechetical unit per day, which was enhanced with games, presentations, and other activities meant to deepen the children’s love of Jesus as well as to inspire within them a passion for the Catholic faith. The Summer Intensive Program was an immediate success with parents praising the continuity and lack of distraction prevailing during this immersion experience - and the kids loved it!
February and in April. These experiences contained prayer, song, presentations, DVDs, crafts, and last but not least, snacks!
Fall of 2014 marked several other major changes in the religious education program. For the irst time, Grades 1 and 2 were the only classes participating in a “school house” or “drop-off” model at the parish. These classes met on either Monday or Tuesday from 4:30-5:45 pm; a 5:45-7:00 pm session was added on Tuesdays to accommodate working parents. A great group of catechists came forward to form these children in their faith and most of them were immediately certi ied through the Diocesan Art of Catechesis methodology course, which was provided on-site. Kim Boliver assisted throughout the year in the preparation of appropriate crafts and activities, which corresponded to the lesson plans, while Kim Leschick assisted with a variety of of ice needs. Much thanks to you both!
And, to inalize the report of an exciting series of changes for our children, the 7th and 8th grade program was moved to Sunday evenings and a youth ministry model was adopted in recognition of the Con irmation candidate’s junior high status. This paradigm included a large group discussion, often including a relevant ilm clip or two, small group discussion based on the evening’s topic, and then a wrap-up session. The Con irmation candidates were divided into two groups and usually met twice a month from September through April. From November into early March, Father Jeff presided at a 5PM Sunday Mass in order to incorporate the Eucharist into the program for both the 7th and 8th graders, their families, as well as to accommodate all parishioners who would bene it from an evening Sunday Mass. Additionally, the 7th and 8th graders participated in Advent and Lenten Penance and Reconciliation services, retreats, and other service opportunities.
Also for the irst time, an online program was offered as a religious education alternative for Grades 3-6. The Faith in Life program was selected because children were able to read the book, answer review questions, and take assessments online with their progress monitored by the RE of ice. This “distance learning” was hailed by some for meeting the needs of busy families, however, the long-term plan was always that the online program would be a transitional step between home schooling and an online program that would be supplemented by intergenerational (parent/child) experiences. These opportunities will be part of the 2015-16 curriculum.
Additionally, our Grade 1 and 2 children and their families participated in intergenerational sessions held on several Sundays; these sessions began with the Sunday Eucharist, “the source and summit” of our Catholic faith. Grade 1 families participated in an event that focused on the saints in November and then they returned for an Epiphany experience in January. Grade 2 families came for proximate preparation for Penance and Reconciliation during an October session and then returned for events focusing on First Eucharist in
Meanwhile, Liturgy of the Word Dismissal for children continued to grow: as the year progressed, more children participated and more catechists came forward to strengthen the team. LWD remained available at 10:00 am and 12:00 noon Masses+ throughout the year with the exception of Easter Sunday. When Father offered the 5:00 pm Mass on Sunday evenings, LWD moved to that Mass, returning to Saturday evenings in March. As an additional alternative for families, Little Church continued to thrive and this year, Lisa Colaco gra18
FAITH FORMATION and LIFE LONG LEARNING ciously facilitated the program through June. Our hope was to convey the fact that Mass does not end in the summer so we will work on accommodating families throughout the entire year. Little Church is held during the 10 am Mass for post-diaper through school age children. Lisa did a super job presenting Catholic-Christian principles in a fun, age appropriate manner. Additionally, our play group Jesus, Mommy and Me continued to meet on the irst and third weeks of the month. Elena Eng demonstrated her musical and early-childhood knowledge to meet the needs of infants through school age children and their caregivers. Although the group was small, it was consistent and we look forward to growth in JM&M in the future.
speakers, multimedia presentations and teen testimonies. We sponsored two dynamic performances on Sunday, March 15th that were thoroughly enjoyed by our families. Last but not least in the realm of Children and Adult catechesis, Jennifer Schlameuss-Perry joined our team in May as the new Coordinator of Children’s Catechesis and Ministry. She comes to us with a Masters in Pastoral Ministry from the University of Scranton. Matthew Butler joined us in June as the new Coordinator of Adolescent Catechesis and Ministry. He comes to us with a Masters in Theology from Boston College. Both have a wealth of pastoral and educational experience. Jen dove immediately into the preparation process for our 2015 Summer Intensive program, which will include even more interactive experiences than last year. Matt jumped right into planning sports opportunities for parishioners throughout the summer! Already in June, Matt arranged for a very successful pitching and catching clinic directed by CBA Athletic Director, Vito Chiaravallotti. Kettle bell and Jiu Jitsu sessions are upcoming. These opportunities, which are open to both sexes, are meant to underscore our parish as being a welcoming place; it is a home where people can participate in a variety of activities without diminishing the role of the Eucharist as the heart from which all of our endeavors emanate. We welcome both Jen and Matt to our parish with open arms!
Although not a program per se, Donna Sikorskas continued to coordinate our Baptism Ministry, in which the families of our newly-baptized receive parent letters and activities. Donna sends packets to families every six months for the irst three years of their child’s life; this is an important “link of love” between our parish community and those families with little ones. At present, 100 families are receiving mailings; 53 were added this year. Therefore, when considering our Baptism Ministry, Jesus Mommy and Me, Little Church, Liturgy of the Word Dismissal and individual family events within our parish, we have certainly improved connections with our very important 0-6 year old parishioners and their families! An example of an individual faith formation event for families with children would be the Advent Pancake Breakfast, which included religious crafts for the children. For adults, a DVD, explaining the liturgical season of Advent, played in the theater throughout the morning. Additionally, each family went home with the very popular book by Matthew Kelly, Besides improvements in the catechesis of our young Dynamic Catholic. people combined with family opportunities to grow in faith, other fantastic faith formation events and proThe parish kiosk, located in the Church gathering grams were presented, initiated, or continued to develspace, continued to feature literature on the liturgiop throughout the year. One exciting occasion was the cal year as well as general catechetical materials. The Parish Mission, presented by Passionist priest, Fadepleting brochure slots attest that the parishioners ther Jack Conley. Besides three dynamic evening are beginning to avail themselves of the excellent presentations, Father Jack spoke at all Masses and was materials found! available for Reconciliation and spiritual direction. The One of the more spectacular happenings for families theme, Rekindling the Fire, combined with Father this past year, due to the collaboration of the ComJack’s charisma, illed the church all three unseasonably munity Building, Music, and Faith Formation of ices, cold November nights. Babysitting was provided but was Array of Hope, a faith- illed, highly inspirational some of the older children opted for the mission and musical production complete with motivational enjoyed it! 19
FAITH FORMATION and LIFE LONG LEARNING In order to build and form parish leadership as well as to strengthen relationships at home, at work, and in the neighborhood, we engaged Terry Ginther, Executive Director of Pastoral Life and Mission in the Diocese of Trenton, to present The Catholic Vision for Leading Like Jesus. This excellent four week program was centered on the Gospel images of Servant Steward and Shepherd. Despite the freezing cold in February, those who joined Terry thoroughly enjoyed this formative experience. During the annual Project Care Program, Father Jeff delighted his audience with a talk on “The Church and Parish Life: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.” Father’s presentation re lected on what it means to be church and how that vision in luences parish life. Two weeks later, I lectured on “The History of the Sacrament of Marriage.” Our hope is to increase the number of these presentations next year by incorporating the talents of our gifted Catechetical Coordinators. In terms of new programs, the most signi icant one, which will begin this summer, is the Men’s Bible Study, an 8 week Quick Course Through the Bible presented by theologian Jeff Cavins (Ascension Press). Many thanks to Phil Walch, Dering Sprague, Chuck Young, and Deacon Fred Sorrentino for their hours of course planning as well as their personal preparation to become facilitators for the study. Meanwhile, Walking with Purpose, our wonderful women’s scripture study group based on the spirituality of St. Therese of Lisieux, had a terri ic year with 56 regular participants. This group continued to thrive thanks to the untiring devotion of Angela Kinlin, Molly Aiello and their exceptional team of facilitators. Most of all, participants in attendance strongly agreed that WWP has provided an opportunity for getting to know others, for expressing personal thoughts without fear of being judged, for feeling connected with the parish and, most importantly, for renewing and deepening their relationship with God. As from the beginning, WWP continued to meet on Thursday mornings and evenings and babysitting was provided. The group will begin another spiritually invigorating session on October 1st. Additionally, several small faith sharing 20
groups met during Advent and Lent using materials prepared by Tom Kinlin and myself. Facilitators were Sue Coleman, Barbara Schaf lin, Sue Fitzpatrick and Linda Dickinson-Pancila. We are hoping to incorporate some new small group faith sharing materials during the upcoming liturgical seasons and work on expanding our group membership. Our Martha Mary Guild had an outstanding year! Probably the only sad occasion was the retirement of Sister Helen Clifton, who had served the spiritual needs of the organization so beautifully. As always, the Martha Mary women worked hard to raise funds in order to support charities dedicated to the bene it of women and children. MM realized another successful clothing and linen sale that assisted Collier Youth Services, Women Helping Women, New Destinies 4 Kidz, among other benevolent organizations. Their guest speakers at meetings covered diverse topics some of which were both educational and fun, such as Rosemarie Poverman’s talk on “Moderation and Balance,” complete with a red clown nose for all participants! MM worked hard as always to recruit new membership. This year was the irst time an election was held so as to open leadership positions to the general membership. Kudos to Tracy Borut, Sue Gobat, and the entire MM board for another successful year! As mentioned, the Faith Formation vision includes a 23 week Men’s Bible Study and an expanded small group faith sharing program during both Advent and Lent. We are also working on a parish mission for the Easter season of 2016 and a more intensive mission experience for 2017. Our team will continue to develop and expand our offerings for all parishioners at the Parish of Saint Mary. We have plenty of beautiful, light- illed space in our new of ice con iguration, which enhances our continued visioning and planning for the future! Here is to another great year!
SACRAMENTAL STATISTICS
Calendar Year: 1 January 2014 thru 31 December 2014
Baptisms Last Name Aiello Basile Berardi Bradach Bucci Bucci Bufano Busacca Busacca Carey Carey Cassiliano Chubb Ciambrone Clay Cutrona DaSilva III Degenhardt Delliga DeVito DiSalvatore Dugo Jr Dunigan Ramos Figueira Figueroa Flanagan Franco
First & Middle
Last Name
First & Middle
Casey John Paul Chris an Nico Angeio Layla Alice Kane Joseph Leo Anthony Vivian Rae Dean Vincent Stella Lauren Luke Elizabeth Jovanney Robert Connor Eugene Lincoln Richard Zander Smith Ryleigh Gil Sarah Marie Alexandra Hailey Quinn Ava Simone Robert Joseph Sarah Elizabeth Nathan Daniel Emiliana Grace Deacon Mathew Alexandra Rae
Fredericks Gavaras Jr Gough Grace Green Grupinski Hanley Hassan Hausmann Heaney Herman Higgins Hursa Ignomirello Kapp Kapp Kondratowicz LaCava Lo to IV Lucas Lucus Luthmann Mann May May McKelvey Netzband
Dylan Michael Jeffery Michael Lucy Rae Sophia Summer Skye Kayla Paige Chris an Joseph Cora Tyler Barre Rylee Belle Elizabeth Marilynn Connor Daniel Eveleigh Elizabeth Enzo Luca Anthony Daniel Kenneth James Natalie Giovanna Rose Anthony Victor Henry Mathew Oliver Michael Sophie Mia Liliana Rose Reid Sadie Samantha Joy Dorthy Ann
Last Name
First & Middle
Novellano O'Connor Pelliccia Polito Quick Rahman Ross Sarapochillo Sgroi Sico Smith Snagusky Spagnoli Jr. Spano Sweeney Tobin Vodarisk Vodarsik-Judikic Wa s Wa s Wa s Weber Weber Whitman Williams Willis
Duncan James Carolyn Nora Isabella Rose Anabelle Leigh Jake Jonathan Parker John Tanner Mikayla Alexa Antonia Sabrina Cris na Augus ne Shane Paul Christopher Daniel San no Michael Logan Patrick Eleanor Katherine Karly Theresa Joseph Paul Patrick William Abigail Marie Christopher Jeffery O o Roy Mylee-Ann Everly Ryan Davis Harper Brooke
First Holy Communions Last Name
First
Last Name
Aanensen Aderton Alves Amsterdam Apolito Atkinson Atkinson Aufiero Aus n Barba Barca Beninato Bradbury Bradbury Burgermeister Burgermeister Buss Calandra Cantalupo Cappelleri Carroll Cassidy Catalano Chiricolo
Madeleine Benji Isabella Tyler Giancarlo Ryan Taylor Courtney Danny Vincent Jerry Dominic Lauren Marc Nash Ryder Jacob Nicholas Isabella Jason Dylan Mario Ryan Chiara
Cifelli Cody Collins D'Antonio DeGaetano DiFabio Dodd Doherty Doherty Doherty Ecklord Eydelman Favilla Fe er Fiore Fitlin Frisina Garcia Grant Gulka Izzo Jesel Johnson Jordan
First JJ Shannon Dan Michael Anthony Jay Miele Jack Kaitlyn Megan Sean Carolyn Thomas Gianna Michael Lucy Victoria Ryan Marco Derek Owen Antonio Stephanie Dominique Christopher
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Last Name
First
Last Name
Jordan Karaty Kazymirczuk Kenyon Kiechlin Kraszewski Krupa Lennon Link-McGovern Lombardo Loring Loureiro Lukenda Mager Mangold Manza III McDevi Menake Mentonis Milora Milora Morin Muller O'Connor
Grace Shawn Brooke Robert Madeline Zoe Madeline Sophia Willow Chiara Morgan Eric Eric Sophie Julianna Gennaro Gavin Daniel Jason Daniella Nicole e Sammie Sean Brady
Padalec Pennachio Pe no Piperno Ronca Rumsby Rumsby Sarlo Savino Savo Scalea Strafaci Sudano Taeschler Tappen Tilker Vaina Vassallo Vasta Veltri Widmeier Wildrick Willis Wrate
First Ma hew Ava Luke Caroleena Sophia Madeline Megan Ava Gianna Mateo Gianna Caitlin Sophia Ava Gabriella Morgan Sofia Dominique Kimberly Luca Grace Carolynn Brian Ma hew
SACRAMENTAL STATISTICS
Calendar Year: 1 January 2014 thru 31 December 2014
Con irmations Last Name Apolito Bartner Benevento Benne Bergamo o Boag Bongiovi Brando Camilli Caputo Chadwick Ciasulli Ciasulli Cleary Como Cuciniello Cutrupi D'Angelo DiFazio Dragone Dudas Duddy Egan Eng Esposito Eyedelman Feaster Fieramosca Finn Finnegan Foltz Fragoulias Gaines Galianese Geniton Giliber Graziano Gregoli Grillo
First Marisa Michael Emily Kirsten Juliana Hunter Jack Maria Thomas Ma hew Thomas Brianna Vanessa Madison Rebecca Victoria Lauren Ashley Dean Maria William Ryan Colleen Daniel Marissa Julia Lauren Tessa Alexander Andrew Kyle Stephanie Daniel Alana Jack Anthony Richard Steven Catherine
Last Name Grizzaffi Haaf Hahn Hartman Hoagland Ianelli Ianelli Imbesi Jannarone Kiechlin King Kryscnski Kushnir LaPoff LaRocca Larsen Lehner Lehner Lepore Lind Lombardo Lombardo Lombardo Lopes Lukenda Luzio Maiello Marino Martorano Matrone Mauriello McGowan McNelis Menicucci Messo Messo Miller Molloy Monda
First Angela Charlo e Ma hew Ma hew Liam Daniel Joseph Evan Trent Vincent Joseph eghan Courtney Ma hew Marissa Alec Brandon Michael Anthony Michaela Anthony John Joseph Kayla Logan Andrew Genevieve Danielle Michael Morgan Joseph Daniel Ciaran Nicholas Alexandra Ralph Tess Alec Chris an
22
Last Name Morrongiello Murrin Mustari Nocella Nodine Notaro O'Hara Osborne Palazzolo Pastore Patharkar Peckyno Piperno Prus Hannah Reese Rega Rizzuto Rodman Rodolieo Ruane Russo Sager Santamaria Santamaria Schaefer Schaffer Schifano Schoenhut Sclafani Sclafani Serpico Shaw Steensen Tuccillo Tucker Wicks Winther Yozzo
First Ma hew Mackenzie Jenine Ashley Sean Isabella Isabel Caroline Corey Jared Neal Nicholas Paul John Quincannon RCIA Brendon Jessie Robert Baylor Sarah Allison Gina Connor Dominick Rocco Ma hew Zachary Brian Jessica Joseph Taylor Kaitlyn Veronica Alexa Mark Aidan Erik Juliet Taya
SACRAMENTAL STATISTICS
Calendar Year: 1 January 2014 thru 31 December 2014
Funerals Last Name First & Middle
Last Name First & Middle
Last Name First & Middle
Aerts, Jules Ahern, Barbara Aldi, Dorothy Beilinson, Stella Camarata, Julia Cavallaro, Ma lda Ciccone, Margaret Cutroneo, Isabella D’Avella, Bernard
Daly, Roberta Eyres, Carol Fieramosca, Beatrice Finelli, Anna Harmon, Jennifer Koch, Mary Beth Larsen, Arthur LoBello, Barbara Molnar, Sophie
Moskal, Irene F. Olivari, Serafino Pance , Catherine “Ki y” Plescia, Gerald M. Quinn, Mary Jane Raymond, James Savoia, Marie Schellenberger, Rudolph
Last Name First & Middle Scifo, Raffaele Scuderi, Constance Sisson, Robert Joseph Stockley, Gloria Sturchio, Ellyn Sharon Vitarelli, Joseph Anthony VonHake, Vera
Marriages Groom Full Name
Bride Full Name
Abels, John Albert Boodey, Mitchell A. Broslaw, David Dragone , Salvatore Monaghan, Connor Pecoraro, Ross Voiro, Joseph John
Salva, Nilda Elaine Crosby, Jennifer A Fagan, Orla DiMeo, Annarita Carnesale, Kate Capomaggi, Teresa Gen le, Jessica
Pancila, Christopher
Dickinson, Linda
Convalidation
BAPTISMS: 80 Infants …….…80….... RCIA Adult …..0…… FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS: 97 Children …… 96.... RCIA Adult …..1.…
CONFIRMATIONS: 118 Children ……. 117… RCIA Adults …….1.... MARRIAGES: 8
ANOINTING OF THE SICK: 68 In Church ……….. 2 Home …………… 12 Hospitals …...…… 6 Brandywine … 48
FUNERALS: 33
Sacramental Comparison Over the Years Calendar Year
1975
1985
1995
2010
2014
Baptism
24
22
50
48
80
First Eucharist
50
39
66
117
97 (children/adults total)
Con irmation
48
66
35
81
118 (children/adults total)
Marriages
19
18
19
20
8
Anointing
5
18
21
5
68
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FAMILY LIFE PRAYER Gracious God, You have created humanity through your Divine Love and You have ordered the family as the locus of this Love. In these times, families are in need of your Divine Grace as we strive to live righteously in the center of much busyness and distraction. We ask You to bless all parents as they struggle firstly to discern your will and then sustain them as they seek to travel along Your path of goodness and truth. We ask that you pour forth the Light of Christ upon us as choices are many and deceptions abound; help us to discern Your will in our lives as we travel along the path of life. Illumine us to Your ways of peace and joy through simplicity and, more importantly, through trust in you. Expand our hearts so that we may prayerfully seek Your friendship each day and know that You are always with us as we strive to guide our children purposefully. And most importantly, teach all families that You await us in the Eucharist and long for us to share richly in the fullness of Your Life as you strengthen us along the disciple’s journey. We ask this through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. AMEN! Holy Mary, Seat of Wisdom……….PRAY FOR US!
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