2025 Parish Grand Annual Appeal
September 25, 2025
Dear Parishioners,
Since my last Grand Annual letter, the Church has celebrated a few milestone events. The Jubilee Year of Hope, beginning on Christmas Eve 2024 continues to call all Catholics to foster a greater sense of global brotherhood and solidarity, especially with the poor and those who suffer from all forms of injustice.
On Easter Monday, the world received the news of the passing of Pope Francis. He was a Pope who championed the dignity of every person. He taught us to value God’s creation and reminded us that we are our brother’s keeper.
On May 8th, we witnessed a historic event. The College of Cardinals elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the first ever United States of America citizen to be elected to the Chair of Saint Peter. Pope Leo XIV’s first message to the world as pontiff was “Peace be with you,” echoing the first words spoken by the Risen Christ. He emphasized that this peace should resonate in hearts, families, and throughout the world, extending beyond a mere absence of war to encompass a deeper, spiritual peace found in Jesus.
It is my yearly duty to provide you with an Annual Financial Report. As you can see, this past fiscal year was a financially difficult one for the parish. The large increases in expenses, including utility bills, property, health insurance and overall parish expenses far exceeded our monthly income. The parish cannot continue to operate using savings. Christine Coulsey, our parish business manager and I have been reviewing every aspect of parish expenses in order to create a balanced budget over the next few years.
I ask that you carefully review the enclosed report ending June 30, 2025, and prayerfully consider a Grand Annual donation of $500.00 to assist us in attaining a balanced budget. I understand that this amount may be too much for those on a fixed income. All I ask is that every parishioner give a gift within their means. My hope is that we can increase the number of parishioners who support this annual collection. Pledges may be paid as a single payment, two monthly payments or over a period of months.
Your witness to your faith and your continued support to Divine Mercy Parish is a blessing to me, the priests and staff of the parish. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns. Once again, thank you and be assured that you and your loved ones remain in my prayers.
Yours in Christ,
(Rev.) Louis R. Palmieri, Pastor
