The numbers are in

Aside from tending to souls, one of the responsibilities of pastors is to tend to the financial aspects of the community which is entrusted to our care.  This includes overseeing the adherence to all the regulations and rules that are outlined by any number of other organizations, including government bodies.

Once a year, it's good practice to let the people in the pews know where we stand.  This is usually done by publishing a Statement of Accounts (of sorts).  People want to know where their money is going, and they want to see that it's being administered wisely.

It's taken six months to get all the figures lined up, but finally, the members of the Finance Committee and I are in a position to share the results of the fiscal year 2011 (which ended on December 31), and for the sake of comparison, we've also included the relevant figures for 2009 and 2010 as well.

Those who are aware of the recent changes will know that on January 1 of 2011, the parish which I serve was combined with a neighbouring parish: reunited in a sense to form the parish that was, but this time with two sites of worship.  In an attempt to make the finances easier to understand, we've detailed the sources of income and expenditure for each of our two sites of worship, but readers should understand that the totals for the fiscal year 2011 are combined for the sake of accounting and reporting to outside parties.

With each year that passes, I am continually impressed with the generosity of the people in our pews.  In the past year, we undertook a major restoration project (which is not quite complete yet, but well on the way).  The total costs of this project are reflected in the financial report, but the amazing part is that the total still owing on the loan which we had to take in order to complete the project is quickly being diminished.  This is a testament to the continued dedication of many individuals and families who generously give of their resources so that this place of worship can welcome all those who are in need.  The words 'thank you' seem never to be enough to express my gratitude, and that of the members of the parish Finance Committee.  Together, I am sure that we will soon have this debt paid off and be able to set our sights on future endeavors.

May God continue to bless you for your generosity.