From the Parish House

I would like to once again express my deep appreciation to the Stewardship Renewal Committee guided by Stephen Littleton from Parish First.  Their generous time and commitment have brought our parish community together for the opportunity to renew and review the life of our parish.  The program was operated under the theme “Building Hope For Our Future – Belong, Pray, Serve.”  This initiative invited all parishioners to reflect on how we might collectively contribute to the vitality and viability of our parish community – through renewed ministry involvement and meaningful financial stewardship.

In preparation for the program, a parish census was conducted to update our records, yielding a response that included the registration of 115 new families – an encouraging testament to the growth of our community.

Simultaneously, our annual Mass Count was undertaken over the first four weekends of May.  This revealed an average weekly attendance of 957 parishioners across our churches, representing an increase of nearly 70 compared to the previous year.  This figure underscores the enduring strength and active nature of our congregation.

Midway through the program, three evening forums were convened, drawing over 70 parishioners.  During these sessions, valuable feedback was received regarding our annual strategic plan.  Four key focus areas emerged for continued development:

• Enhanced engagement with youth
• Establishment of a Learning Coordination Group
• Strengthening of relationships with our parish schools
• Broader community outreach

The Parish Pastoral Council will now proceed with discerning and implementing these priorities as part of our ongoing mission.

We are also gratified to report a positive response to the program’s financial appeal.  Numerous parish ministries have been reinvigorated, with existing volunteers reaffirming their commitments and many new families stepping forward to serve.  Moreover, 340 families – of whom 43 pledged for the first time – have made financial commitments in support of the parish.  We offer our sincere thanks for this generous and faith-filled response.

Pledge Cards and Groups and Ministries forms remain available in all our churches for those who may still wish to participate.  Completed forms may be submitted via the collection plate or delivered to the Parish Office.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this program – through presence, prayer, participation, or generous giving.  Your involvement is instrumental in shaping a parish that is welcoming, vibrant, and filled with hope for the future.

By Fr Sang Ho