My dear Parishioners,

On October 1, the Solemnity of the Little Flower, I wrote to all Little Flower parishioners asking them to pledge to the 2012 Little Flower Parish Fund Appeal. I mentioned the importance of this annual Fund to the operation and maintenance of the parish and that it historically allows our parish to avoid monthly second collections for the needs of the parish and the need for major additional fundraising activities. This Fund along with the Offertory Collection provides nearly 90% of our annual regularly budgeted parish income and is very important to our ability to effectively provide the sacramental and outreach programs offered to our parishioners.

As I write this letter, we continue to see a drop in participation to this Fund. Over the past 5 years, pledges are down 20% and they are down again this year compared to a year ago. Five years ago about 35% of families pledged and contributed to the Fund. The last two years, this number is under 30%.

The key to the success of the Little Flower Parish Fund Appeal is to have broad participation. Therefore, I ask those who have not yet pledged to prayerfully consider making a generous pledge to the 2012 campaign. I know that we all face difficult financial challenges and uncertainty, but I also know that, “…whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” As we approach Thanksgiving and the beautiful season of Advent, we give thanks individually and as a parish for the wonderful blessings given to us by our heavenly Father. Please consider sharing some of your monetary blessings by pledging to the 2012 Fund Appeal.

Gratefully in Christ,

Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Vaghi

Pastor