ANNUAL REPORTSChurch of Our Lady
Moose Jaw Sk Canada
ANNUAL REPORTS
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Church of Our Lady Of the Blessed Sacrament
Annual Meeting - March 27, 2011
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Visioning After a year and nine months as Pastor of Church of Our Lady I am beginning to see this parish as a vibrant, dynamic and welcoming faith community. In view of this, we were able to gather together to assess the present needs of our Parish in a workshop attended by not less than 40 parishioners last January of 2010. As a result of that the Parish had formulated its mission statement. This statement describes in general terms the direction of all our activities as a Parish made possible by the different ministries or committees. Each committee has defined goals directing their activities to be able to realize our mission as a Parish. The buildings and grounds has now formulated their goals as a result of the different committees formed to look into the different needs of the parish in terms of space, maintenance of existing ones, and proposed improvements to contribute to the realization of our mission. Thank you very much for all those who have shared their time and talent to the buildings and grounds. We look forward this year to assess our Parish activities in terms of faith formation programs, particularly for adults and the youth.
Indicators of a Vibrant and Dynamic Community Increase in the reception of the Sacraments. The table below shows that there was an increase of 37% in the reception of the sacrament of Baptism, 50 percent increase in RCIA and 50% increase in matrimony.
Although the increase is not significant in absolute numbers, it stirs hope that our best effort to pass on the legacy of our Catholic faith is on the right track. I would like to specially thank, the religious education committee; RCIA and Sacrament of Initiation teams, the marriage preparations Teams. Increase in finances. The table below shows the comparative statement of operations of the Church for the last two years. The numbers show an increase in the revenue collection for the church to 5.6 and 5.5% respectively for the years 2009 and 2010, while the bottom line shows a positive income. This tells us that each parishioner is taking a more active part in the stewardship of our faith community.
Increase in number of Church Goers. You might have noticed the increase in the number of young families and their children in the mass. Almost all pews during Sunday mass is occupied. Thanks for the creativity of the liturgy committee – the choir both Saturday night and Sunday's groups and children’s liturgy team. When do we see the teen-age group come out from their shell?
In sum, I would like to thank all of you for your stewardship. Let us look forward this coming year to take a more active part in the celebration of our faith by committing ourselves to witness Christ wherever we are. Let us keep to heart what Jesus said, ‘This is how all will know that you are my disciples … your love for one another.’ (Jn 13:35) Fr Carlos Jimenez
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I must begin by saying “Thank You” to all people who make our parish what it is. “Thank You” to the schools for getting involved in our parish, but more importantly, to the parents who bring their children to church. It has been several years, since we have been able, to rely on having enough young people, to altar serve at mass, become in involved in music ministry, ushering and children’s liturgy. “Thank You” to the RCIA & RCIC teams for all their hard work and success. “Thank You” to members of parish council. Your efforts in looking for ways, to make our parish stronger are truly Christian and in line with our “Mission Statement”. Change is difficult, but inevitable!! All we need to do is look at the world we live in, with cell phones, computers & etc. A lot of us have to get our grandchildren, to program them for us. Try to phone a big business, without going through several menu’s and maybe get to talk to a real live person! I believe the parish that will be successful in the future, will be the parish that makes our younger generation feel welcome, but is able to maintain our basic Christian values. This is the goal your parish council is trying to accomplish with our “Visioning Process”. If we are able to follow our “Mission Statement”, Church of Our Lady will flourish. A, special “Thank You” to Father Carlos for his continued support. Thank You Vince Bouchard
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Note: The Religious Formation Committee was chaired by Bernadette Cey until November, 2010. At that time I was asked to be interim chair. Baptism Preparation Confirmation and First Communion
Preparation Team Members – Victor Lavallee,
Valerie and Gage Brennan, Lisa Ethier, Fiorina Hauck and Bernadette Cey.
Jean Landry helps with the Retreat. Rite of Christian Initiation for
Adults (RCIA) Marriage Preparation Many, many thanks to the
dedicated people who give their time and talent to these ministries, and to
Father Carlos, for his very open and welcoming manner. Rosalie Marcil (interim Chairperson, Religious Formation)
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Buildings & Grounds Annual Report
I started as the chair of the Building & Grounds Committee in May, so I will not be able to speak to any activities prior to that. I will however, give you a brief rundown of the activities we have been involved in since May of last year. Our first major repair came in July when we had to replace the fridge in the Hall. The dishwasher was also in need of repair and this was also completed soon after that. In July, about 90% of the catone asters surrounding the church and rectory contacted a disease called fire blight. After consulting the city parks department, we found that we could possibly save the shrubs, but it required trimming them down as close as possible to the ground. We then had to haul away the diseased trimmings to the dump for disposal. With help from parish volunteers, we accomplished this in about 3 evenings, thanks again to all those who helped. We spent the fall working on the visioning plan. Pastoral Council asked that one member of the committee be on each of 6 groups looking at different areas of the property. These reports have been completed and we are now beginning to implement the recommendations from the visioning process. Some of the work will be inexpensive and will require more volunteer time than money to complete, while many of the other projects will require substantial amounts of money. We are starting to put together plans for all the recommendations from the visioning process. We should begin to see some results in the next few months, while the larger projects will take 12 – 24 months to complete due to planning and finances. One other ongoing project of note is the repairs to the stained glass window. We have a contractor selected and when we get the funding in place from the finance committee, we will complete the repairs, and get the window back in place. We are also monitoring the cracks in the wall above and below the window. Early winter saw another unexpected expense, as our annual Furnace inspection revealed that we had 3 furnaces with cracked heat exchangers. The furnaces required replacement immediately. We contacted vendors and replaced the furnaces the week before Christmas. For the coming year, I look forward to working with the members of the Building & Grounds Committee. I feel we have a very diversified and knowledgeable group to work with, and thank them for their time and efforts. Sincerely; J.Paul Flegel Buildings & Grounds chair
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Financial Committee Report for 2010
We have invested funds received in the previous years from bequeaths and these are being held in investments with the Archdiocese in an Interparocial Sharing Fund as well as several Guaranteed Investment Certificates for approved and needed capital projects and repairs. We have asked the parishioners to contribute towards the repair costs of our Icon Stained Glass Window of our Blessed Mother Mary. The cost of just the repair on the actual window is estimated to be $7500. and this will not include the cost to reinstall the window once the repairs are complete. We have also set aside monies for the installation of a projector, computer and screen to provide better visual aides during our Mass and other services. We have set aside monies for our youth who are the future of our Parish and are key to the sustainability and growth of Church of Our Lady. It has been a blessing to see the young ones back at Mass and we want to be able to provide support to them and their needs. We have our Parish Community Centre which is a wonderful place for social gatherings of our community and I would ask that as parishioners we should be promoting its usage. It is a great facility that was recently repainted in the hall area and continued improvements are planned. It’s a place for our seniors to gather for cards and bingo during the week and the coffee & goodies served after Mass draw us closer as community. The Breakfasts, Beefs Suppers and Barbeques should not be missed as they are wonderful events. Our committee has projected a 6% increase for revenue and expenses over 2011 and we are confident that our parishioners both old and new will continue to support this Parish with their financial aid in helping us to meet our budget. Thank you so much for your past support and your anticipated future giving. Thank you to all the parishioners who are serving on the Financial Committee: John Fischer, Ron Pigott, Rene Landry, Peter Rumancik, Collin Cossette, Colette McGillivray, Derek Hassen & Fr. Carlos. We are always open to new members joining and they can contact anyone on the committee as our meetings are held the 3rd Wednesday each month. I would also like to thank Charlene Douglas our Parish Administrative Assistant for her dedicated service in preparing the monthly financial statements and the recording of our monthly meeting minutes, your assistance is greatly appreciated. Also a special thank you also goes out to Peter Rumancik who continues to assist me with co-chairing this committee; your help is also greatly appreciated.
Respectively submitted by, Joan Popoff Financial Chairperson
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At this time, the Ecumenism “Committee” consists of only me. One of my goals this year was to find at least one other person to get involved, but that goal will be carried over till next year. In the fall of 2010 it was brought to my attention that there was no Role Description for Ecumenism Chair in the Pastoral Council Constitution. I drafted the following role description based on Archdiocesan guidelines. It was an exercise that helped clarify my understanding of the position. Role of the Parish Ecumenical Representative
To foster a deeper ecumenical awareness among parishioners, several short inserts were placed in the church bulletin. They provided information on what ecumenism is, the work of the World Council of Churches, the Harvest Project and the Ecumenical Prayer Cycle. To help develop a personal ecumenical spirituality, I attended a workshop in Regina on November 6. The main presenter was Msgr. John A. Radano, a staff member of the Pontifical Council for promoting Christian Unity from 1984 – 2008. On March 4 I attended an inspiring World Day of Prayer Service at St. Joseph Church. The theme of the service was “How many loaves have you?”, and materials for the service were developed by the women of Chile. Respectfully submitted, Rosalie Marcil (Ecumenism chairperson)
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On February 7, 2010, a visioning workshop was held for all parishioners of Church of Our Lady. This workshop was directed by Christine Boyczuk who is an experienced process moderator. Parish members were asked to bring forward ideas, issues, things they would like to celebrate and things they would like to change. As the day progressed, seven clear subjects emerged: 1. A Welcoming Environment/Building Community 2. Understanding the Multicultural needs of the Parish 3. Youth 4. Catholic Education and Gospel spirituality—Christ-Centered Spirituality 5. Seniors 6. Buildings/Physical Space 7. Outreach and Evangelization The information gathered from this workshop was reviewed by Parish Council, and a Mission statement was developed based on the direction given by the whole parish community. This Mission Statement is recited before Mass each weekend: We, as members of Church of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, Believe that we are called to minister to all who come through our doors. As good stewards, when we go out, we will take Christ to our local community and to the whole of God's world.
The Parish Council then began the in-depth work of following through on developing the work involved with “Buildings/Physical Space”. Committees were formed to gather information and a sense of what the parish community would like to see addressed. The information was brought together at a special meeting of Parish Council moderated by Stephanie Molloy, Chaplain of Campion College, on February 13, 2011. The preliminary work was discussed, decisions were made, and as funds permit, the work will go forward. The Buildings and Grounds committee under the direction of the Committee Chair, Paul Flegal, will oversee most of this work. Parishioners can expect to see aesthetic improvements to the worship space, signage and accessibility upgrades, landscape beautification, augmented storage space, and rectory repair and enhancement. Parish Council is now involved in deciding which subject will be attended to next. Much of the same processes will be used. One of the seven topics will be chosen, and then the parish community will be invited to complete surveys or bring forward ideas and suggestions through other means. Committees will be formed to gather information and bring this to Parish Council where an action plan can again be created. Church of Our Lady Parish Council would like to congratulate and thank all members of our community who participated in voicing its needs and in dreaming of a strong community that would welcome all who come through our doors. Since our first gathering in February of 2010, we have seen an increased sense of enthusiasm and participation in our liturgies. We have welcomed many new members to our parish and we value their presence and their contribution. We have much to celebrate, but at the same time, your Parish Council is committed to continue to address all the areas of concern that were brought forward at the parish gathering. Parish Council is moving ahead, and we welcome any and all support from our community. The Spirit of Christ is truly present among us! |
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CHURCH OF OUR LADY CWL ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2010 This is my third year as CWL President of Church of our Lady, and first of all I would like to thank all the people, in this Council, that have helped me and supported me, in that position, especially Father Carlos. Our Council holds regular monthly meetings from September to June, in our Community Center beginning with Mass at 7pm. Our Meetings try to incorporate Spiritual, business, and socializing. Membership to join our Council is open to all women for a fee of $25.00 annually. Our Membership consists of 73 ladies, and our members are involved in every aspect of the Parish Community consisting of the following service: --Readers and Announcers, at Mass on Saturday nights and Sunday mornings. --Eucharistic Ministers during Mass, for shut-ins in their homes, and at the Hospital and Care homes. --Children’s Liturgy Leaders --Choir Members --Sacristans --RCIA --Sacramental Preparations --Parish Council and the Committees of Finance, Liturgy, and Hospitality --Bingo Lunch scheduling and working at the weekly bingos Our Council has had several fundraising activities over the past year to assist in supporting our various contributions. These have included ,an Advent luncheon and Bake Sale and the Sale of Religious Articles, Missals, and Calendars, and the catering of 8 funeral receptions throughout the year. These activities in turn let us contribute to the following groups and organizations. --Moose Jaw Right to Life --CHAS and WCACYM(Catholic Health Assoc. of Saskatchewan, Western Catholic Assoc. of Catholic Youth) --Queen of Peace --Esk-Omi Missions of Canada --White Fathers Missionaries of Africa --Christian Child Care International Annual Sponsorship of one child (our Child is a Young girl living in India) --Taxi service Vouchers for parishioners to attend weekly Masses. --Community Hall rental Funds have been provided towards the regional CWL Scholarship for young adults attending Post Secondary education. Our CWL Council is also involved in the following: --Lead one of the “Stations of the Cross” during Lent. --Provide cakes for sacramental celebrations and gifts to recipients of the First Eucharist. --Provided lunch for the Deanery Meeting in our Parish --Members were involved in World day Of Prayer. Our theme last year was “Women of Peace and Hope” which we tried to incorporate in our giving to that in need and to our Various Parish Ministries. Our Parish Community supports us in all we do, especially in our fund raising efforts. A special thank you is extended to all in our Parish who provide assistance with the preparations and serving of the funeral receptions. I would like to thank everyone in our Council, and I need especially thank my right hand people on my council, Joan Popoff, and Vicki Mayer. Without their expertise and help, we would not have had such a successful year, and I am so very grateful for them.
Respectfully submitted Nancy Ripley C.W.L. President |
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Hospitality Report for Parish Annual Meeting 2011
1. Greeters and Ushers continue to move forward. We have had a few new Parishioners offer to help with these ministries. A big “Thank You” to the Parishioners who volunteer their time. We would like to see more participation on Saturday, so if you are able to help, it is greatly appreciated. 2. Our Youth continue to serve in these ministries and thank you to Elaine Oak who is Head Usher for our youth. The Hospitality Committee have encouraged and shown support to them. 3. Our fellowship after Sunday morning Mass continues to be strong. We have welcomed new Parishioners as volunteers in this area as well. A special “Thank You” to Grant Meyers who ensures that coffee is made and water heated for tea every week. 4. Birthday Sunday the last Saturday and Sunday of each month is very well received. Fr Carlos invites all those who have celebrated their birthday during the past month, to the Altar for a special birthday blessing. After Mass the Hospitality Committee has a birthday lunch and cake in the hall for all who wish to partake. 5. Various functions hosted by Hospitality throughout 2010 are: i. Birthday celebrations the last Sunday of each month celebrated with BBQ’s, Pizza, Cold plates and Cake, ice cream & strawberries ii. Lunch for Parish Annual Meeting iii. Easter Vigil Wine and Cheese social iv. Confirmation supper with the sacramental preparation team, Parish Council, and His Grace, Archbishop Daniel Bohan v. Holy Trinity Sunday BBQ May 30 vi. Supper for Philippine Men’s Choir in July as well as a BBQ in August for their choir volunteering to provide music for two Masses. vii. Parish BBQ August 29th to welcome back Parishioners from the summer vacations viii. Cinnamon Buns prepared by Kathy Coghlin ix. Caribbean Night Saturday, November 27 x. Western Breakfast Sunday December 5th to welcome all new parishioners to Church of Our Lady xi. Communicated to the Parishioners the importance of each committee and introduced the committees to the parish at the welcoming breakfast. xii. Parish Christmas Social in December for all Parishioners 6. Introduced a new system for Sunday Coffee Schedule after Mass, and new volunteers put their name forward to help with this fellowship. 7. I would like take this opportunity to send a very special “Thank You” to Charlene Douglas who contributes so much time to all the details that go with planning these events. I would also like to say a special “Thank You” to Dennis Ludwar who has always been there to lend a helping hand. A very special thanks to Cel Hanevelt for taking charge of the Greeting ministry ensuring that the schedule is always completed. My deepest appreciation to you three people for your support and just always being there………….THANK YOU! 8. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank “Hospitality Committee Members” Dennis & Cheryl Ludwar, Nancy Ripley, Vicki Mayer, Besse Andrews, Dom Mancuso, Sandra Flagel, Ernie & Trina Pierce, Cel Hanevelt and Charlene Douglas. Over the years, we have not only worked together as a committee, but have developed special friendships which I hope we each value as much as I do. Thank you for all your commitment of time and energy to the social aspect of our Parish which is so important. 9. I must also thank all Parishioners who are always there, to lend a helping hand when you see help is needed. WOW! What a community to be a part of!
Respectfully Submitted Dave Douglas – Chair Hospitality
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Knight of Columbus Father Gilpin Council #9760
The Knights of Columbus have been instrumental in many church activities throughout the past year, some of which follows: 1. Volunteer workers for the weekly church Bingo; 2. Sponsoring the Annual Spring Supper; 3. Several Pancake Breakfasts after Sunday Mass; 4. Sunday morning Lunches after mass; 5. Construction and erection of the Christmas Manger; 6. New pots and colanders for the hall; 7. Special Ham and turkey bingos; and 8. Although not directly connected to church activities, we have provided numerous charitable donations to various causes. The Knights of Columbus will continue to be an integral part of Church of Our Lady and do our best to support the church in all of it’s endeavours. Pat Meuse Grand Knight Father Gilpin Council # 9760
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Annual Deanery Report – 2011
As Deanery Representative, It was my responsibility to represent Church of Our Lady at a series of meetings during the course of the year. Upon completion of these meetings, I would report back to the Parish Council on the Programs and Resources offered. As of this AGM, there have been three meetings held in October, January and March. I was able to attend the October meeting but due to other personal commitments was unable to attend the other two. Even though I was not in attendance I was still able to review the important points by receiving the meeting minutes. Upon review of these minutes I have compiled the following important points: · Utilize the “Visioning” process to provide a more definitive direction as we continue to encourage growth and maintaining strong parishes within the Deanery · Parish Councils need to review the new guidelines that have been set out by the Archdiocese in defining the Business and the Spiritual areas of the Parish. The Deanery will provide educational opportunities on how to implement this procedure. A booklet has been provided to assist in this transition. (Green Booklet) · Archdiocese Appeal DVD was distributed to educate parishioners on how these funds are utilized for several programs within the Diocese · The Deanery is providing resources for Lent and Advent programs · Encourage a larger role in Stewardship though resources provided by the Deanery · Encourage a larger role in Social Justice by providing more opportunities to discuss the important issues. This information should be provided by a Social Justice Representative on Parish Council In closing, in my first year as Deanery Representative, it has been a pleasure taking on this role as part of the Parish Council. I would like to thank Parish Council Chair Vince Bouchard for presenting me with this opportunity. I look forward to continuing in this role. I will be attending two additional meetings scheduled for April 30th and May 24th to complete my first term and I expect to begin my second term with a meeting in the fall. Respectfully Submitted by,
Dion Drewlo Deanery Representative, COOL Moose Jaw
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March 2010
The youth continue to flourish in our parish. Altar server numbers continue to be strong and it is rare for our services to be lacking enough servers. Elaine Oak has engaged the youth as an ‘usher group’ has been established and they are scheduled monthly. Bernadette Cey has organized a youth choir and all children are invited up to participate in our closing hymn. Additionally, the youth have participated in various parts of the liturgy, including a re-enactment of the Passion which was very well received. We continue to see young families join our parish and engage in these activities. I encourage all to take a look at the numbers for Children’s Liturgy, they have grown significantly over the past year and this bodes well for the future of our parish. Respectfully submitted by, Derek Hassen
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