Dear Parishioners,

I want to speak with you plainly about a change that will affect our parish in the coming fiscal year. The amount our parish pays in assessment to the Archdiocese will increase. That word can sound technical, but it simply refers to the portion of parish income that helps support the wider work of the Church across the archdiocese — ministries, services, and responsibilities that no one parish could carry alone.

I know this news may bring concern. Many families are already feeling the strain of rising costs, and our parish is facing those pressures as well. I do not want to minimize that, and I want you to know I am mindful of it.

For many years, the assessment rate remained at 8%. It will increase to 12% July 1, 2026.

That rate was put in place after the bankruptcy reorganization of 2007 and was understood to be temporary, with gradual increases expected over time. Because those adjustments didn’t occur, the change now feels more significant than it would have if it had come little by little. At the same time, the costs of supporting the Church’s shared work have continued to rise, and that pressure is being felt at every level.

I also know that conversations about Church finances can raise understandable questions. So I want to say this clearly: this is not an arbitrary change. It is a long-delayed adjustment meant to help carry shared responsibilities more responsibly and sustainably.

Here at St. Mary Catholic Church, our response will be guided by honesty, careful stewardship, and trust in the Lord. We will continue to serve the mission of the Church faithfully, make prudent decisions, and keep you informed with clarity and transparency.

Please pray for our parish, for the Archdiocese, and for all those entrusted with these responsibilities. Thank you for your patience, your generosity, and your continued faithfulness. Together, with God’s help, we will move forward in hope.

In Christ,

Rev. Ronald Nelson