Investing in Catholic Education
This year, 32 families from our parish—representing 50 children—have applied for, and will receive, a subsidy which is Parish funded tuition assistance to attend O’Hara Catholic School.
In accordance with the diocesan subsidy program, St. Mary’s will contribute $1,150 per student directly to O’Hara to help offset tuition costs. This support is a meaningful part of our parish budget, $57,500.00 for the 2025-2026 school year, and reflects our commitment to nurturing strong Catholic education for our young people.
O’Hara is the largest Catholic elementary school in the Archdiocese of Portland, serving over 500 students from parishes throughout Lane County. With two classrooms per grade level from Pre-K through 8th, and an average class size of just 25 students, O’Hara provides a supportive and faith-filled learning environment. More than 55% of students are Catholic, and the school partners closely with families, who commit to 36 hours of volunteer service each year.
The families receiving this support are registered parishioners of St. Mary’s who actively participate in the life of our parish. They give generously of their time, talent, and financial resources, whether through ministry involvement, volunteer service, or weekly offertory contributions.
Supporting their children’s Catholic education is one more way we walk together as a faith community.
If you would like to help support this important effort, there are several simple ways to give:
- Add a little extra in your online giving
- Use the School Support envelope included in your giving packet
- Or even consider covering the annual or monthly equivalent subsidy for one anonymous child with a gift of $1,150, or $115.
Your generosity helps make it possible for children in our parish to receive a solid, faith-centered education. Thank you for being part of this mission.
Stay tuned for the Stewardship Report November 23, 2025.
