It is always a joy to be here with you and celebrate the Liturgy in one of my previous homes. I was the pastor here many years ago and have a great love for Prince of Peace. This parish is a bright spot, a beacon of hope, in the Archdiocese and for so many Catholics in Northwest Houston.
There are challenges we now face together, some of which are outlined below by David Light, our Finance Council Chair. I encourage you to continue forward in hope. Christ tells us, “
Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” (
Mark 6:50
).
Look to your faith as we face these challenges head-on. Know that the Lord has blessed this community abundantly throughout the years and will continue to do so.
As the Auxiliary Bishop and the Administrator for Prince of Peace, I fully support the efforts of this community and know we will continue to prosper. You are in my prayers.
Sincerely in Christ,
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Most Reverend Bishop Sheltz
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When my family and I relocated back to Houston in 2016, we knew we wanted to be in Northwest Houston because of Prince of Peace. With three young children, we were yearning for a place to call home, a place to minister, a place to become better disciples. We found that here at POP.
Our parish is home for thousands of families and is known for our welcoming nature and ministries that form and nurture disciples. As a parish, our offerings and engagement continue to increase thanks to our community of faithful. On the other hand, donations for the Sunday offering have decreased noticeably in recent months and is challenging our ability to serve.
In short, collections are down, and cost-cutting measures are actively being put in place. The 2018-2019 budget was based on collections of $96,100 a week for a total of $4,901,100, and we are averaging $90,600 per week, approximately $398,100 below our budgeted amount by June 30, 2019.
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BUDGET
ACTUALS*
SURPLUS/ (SHORTAGE)
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WEEKLY AVERAGE
$96,100
$90, 600
($5,500)
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TOTAL
$4,901,100
$4,503,000
($398,100)
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Given this, the finance council and staff have focused on reducing costs in ways with the least impact to ongoing ministry as possible. By shortening the Parish Office hours, re-negotiating building loan terms, and several other changes, we have greatly reduced costs. However, even with the cost reductions, there is still a significant shortfall projected for the year.
Whether in times of financial surplus or shortfall, POP will continue to be the home for those searching. We will educate people in faith, foster vocations, feed the hungry, enrich marriages, strengthen families, and provide the grace of the sacraments. I have taken the financial challenges as an opportunity to look at my personal giving and take that to prayer. I invite each of you to prayerfully consider your contributions to POP as well.
For questions or details about giving, contact Cecilia Buice in the Finance Office or visit
pophouston.org/give
.
Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for POP. I am blessed to serve Christ alongside you. Please continue to keep our parish in your prayers.
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David Light
Finance Council Chair
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