Dear Fellow Parishioners,

First, I want to thank you for your continued attendance at masses each week.  Unfortunately, we will have to continue our Covid-19 restrictions of wearing masks during mass and social distancing.  As our attendance continues to increase, we will have ushers at the 4PM and 10AM mass to help seat people.  We will continue to do our best to provide a safe and healthy environment for all of us.

            The parish is holding its own financially.  In the past 9 months, from July 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021, our revenue was $188,076.46.  Unfortunately, our expenses for the same period were $190,993.44.  We also received a PPP loan in the amount of $38,005 from Riverview Bank and that loan was paid off by the US Small Business Administration so that money is now ours and is in a savings account.  However, during 2020, we put off several improvement projects that need to be done this spring or summer.  The highest priority is to repair the air conditioning system.  Without getting into great detail, the one coil and the cooling agent need to be replaced so that we can keep the church cool ASAP.  Since we have to wear masks, we can’t wait any longer to make these repairs.  The total estimated cost is $15,000.  Next, we need to seal the church parking lot and driveways to prevent leaks.  Leaks would cause potholes to be formed which would cost much more to repair.  The cost to reseal everything and put down new lines is $10,000.  The other repairs are ongoing roof leaks in the church and garage.  These were fixed earlier this year at a cost of $2,500.  Also, the roof on the garage near the church hall was replaced last fall.  The cost was $2,500.  Thus, the total funds needed for these projects are $30,000. 

            In an effort to replenish the parish improvement account, we will be having a Parish Improvement Fund Drive.  The goal of this drive is $30,000.  Any and all contributions, from $1 and up, are greatly appreciated.  The Drive will run from May 9^th till August 8^th. I know these are difficult times for all of us, however, please try and help the parish in any way you can.  You can put money or a check in the monthly improvement fund envelope and put it in the collection basket.  You can also put your donation in an envelope and label it towards the improvement campaign.  We will keep track of all donations and record them in your annual contributions for tax purposes. Also, we will post a progress report each week similar to the posting for the 40 cans for lent campaign to show the ongoing results of the campaign.               

            As we continue to open our parish, we plan on having Vacation Bible School later this summer.  It may have to be a stripped down version compared to previous years but I feel it is very important to minister to our young people.  We will also be having our Fall Fest on October 24, 2021.  We will try to replicate the successful event we had in 2019. 

            Again, I can’t thank you enough for your ongoing support of Ss. Peter and Paul.  As Disciples of Christ, let us all do our part to continue to love God and love our neighbor, using our own unique gifts and talents to fulfill this most worthy mission.

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. John Gibbons