This weekend at all the Masses, we will be talking to you about the financial status of our parish. This is a matter which concerns all of us, because every service the parish offers us is funded by what is donated by the members. I sincerely hope and pray that you take what we tell you to heart because this report is based on the facts and records compiled by our Business Manager with those who assist him and the Finance Council. Their efforts were applauded by the diocese in their review of our financial report. Sincere efforts have been made to make the report as easy to read as possible. After reading the report and listening to Al Pytel’s explanation, I hope this gives you a clear picture of our parish's financial situation and what we can do about it. Thank you for the support you give so faithfully week after week. We couldn't do the things we do without your generosity.

On this Catechetical Sunday we express our thanks to all those who work as catechists in our parish. Those who give of their time in this important work perform one of the most crucial ministries in the parish: the religious education and formation of our children. We thank Mr. Richard Kaliszewski and the teachers of Assumption Academy as well as Mary Zabrecky and the teachers who work with her for their efforts in passing on the faith to the next generation of Catholics. As we offer our gratitude for their untiring work, we also pray that the Holy Spirit guides them in their ministry and make it bear much fruit.

In light of the tragic events of last week in Minnesota, it is most important to keep the families and children of Annunciation parish in our prayers as they continue to navigate the implications of this to their grade school and parish community. This is an all too often occurrence in schools across the nation and no one should have to face this as a possibility when they go to school for the day or attend Mass. We can only imagine the sorrow of the parents and classmates who lost someone so close to them as well as of those who carry the memory of this day for the rest of their lives. We ask our Blessed Lord to bring healing to this situation and all those who are a part of it so they can move forward under God’s protection.