Stewardship Survey

It has been a difficult year, from the significant down turn in the economy and many people losing their jobs to some parishioners’ frustrations over the implementation of the Archdiocesan mandates. We believe that these factors contributed to a significant shortfall in contributions. Some of this loss was offset, and not quite felt, due to the fact that we went for several months before replacing two vital staff positions, those of the Social Responsibility Minister and Youth Minister. Then came Fr. Jeff’s very difficult decision to reduce the number of staff positions, in order to have a balanced budget in the new fiscal year (based on the projected continued reduction in stewardship contributions).

 

This announcement sparked a very energetic response. We have heard how the positions of Pastoral Associate and Parish Nurse have helped us to recognize how we can love one another. We remain committed to becoming Epiphany, a manifestation of God in our world. The communications following the decision to eliminate these positions and the Hispanic Ministries/“One Community” (temporary part-time) Project Director also revealed that many faithful community members neither previously realized the severity of the financial situation nor the potential impact on staff, mission and programs. Therefore, last week, Fr. Jeff suspended the decision to balance our budget through a staffing reduction while we search for other alternatives. The “One Community” project will be coordinated by volunteers and full-time staff, and Ana will transition to volunteer ministry. Sr. Mary and Pam have graciously agreed to stay until June 30 to allow a wider consultation with the whole parish. After receiving your input, a final decision will be made by the end of June.

 

There has been a lot of conversation, and a lot of passion expressed by the community. One of the hopes expressed most strongly is to hold up the vision and invite the community to respond and be a part of the solution. We heard that people desire to enter into a creative process that meets the challenge of the shortfall in a way that enlivens our commitment and engages us in a deeper conversation. The tension in many of our exchanges challenges us to continue in conversation even when we disagree. This is the very struggle we see reflected in our world: to stay in relationship, not demonizing or cutting off those with whom we disagree. Our beloved community of Epiphany has a history of broad engagement, deep commitment and abundant generosity. The blessing of community is that “many hands can make light work,” and the best wisdom is often found when we work together. So, here is our chance!

 

The budget process for the 2009-2010 fiscal year (July 1 - June 30) is currently underway. All committees and staff were given the task of preparing a budget, as lean as possible, while still continuing programs vital for our mission. Staff salaries have been frozen for the coming year. In line with many people’s suggestions, we have trimmed budgeted expenses significantly. With these cuts and the latest projected stewardship revenue estimates, the budget deficit for next fiscal year has been reduced from $100,000 to $50,000. However, looking forward, we can anticipate a similar financial picture in future years. Our expenses will increase—even more significantly if the current freeze on salaries is removed or any of the currently reduced expenses need to be restored.  Our financial contributions must increase if we are to continue our ministries with our current staff levels. 

 

Because of the blessing of community, we could have many creative options. $50,000 seems like a daunting number, but if we use our imaginations, we can see many possible scenarios. For instance, imagine how we could continue all our ministries with our “leaner” budget in this difficult economic time if just 700 of 1400 families could give $6 more a month. Imagine that if 700 increase their pledge by $10 or more a month, we would have $84,000 or more, and could expand our ministries and help those in crisis. If some cannot give as much, others may be able to give more.

 

Together we can imagine, discern and decide how we want to contribute and continue our mission in the world. This survey tool is a start. We thank those who have already been moved to send additional contributions—you’ve shown us a model of faith in this time of turmoil, and started the momentum going. Now is the opportunity for all Epiphanites to offer wisdom. Please fill out the following survey form (on the web or paper copy), and get it back to Epiphany by June 8, 2009.

 

Thank you.