Moycarkey/Two-Mile Borris/Littleton Parish.
This weekend, we are publishing the Annual Financial Statements for our parish. These include the income and expenditure figures for 2024, along with comparisons from 2023. The overall picture is positive, and I would like to thank all who have contributed so generously and consistently. Your generosity has enabled us to make a contribution of €15,000 to the Two-Mile Borris Graveyard Committee and a further €15,000 to the Moycarkey Graveyard Committee.
I also wish to acknowledge the dedicated work, advice, and commitment of the Parish Finance Committee. Special thanks to Kay Doherty, our Parish Secretary, for her work in managing the parish finances. Thanks also to Martha McConnell, Financial Accountant from the Diocesan Office, for her input into preparing these statements.
While the overall position is reassuring, I must also highlight some concerning underlying trends. The weekly income figures published here represent contributions from approximately 30% of the parish population. However, the full range of parish services Baptisms, First Holy Communion and Confirmation, funerals, weddings, daily and weekend Masses, and more—are provided for and availed of by almost the entire parish.
Furthermore, each year, some parishioners who have faithfully supported the parish financially pass away, and they are not always replaced by contributors in the next generation. As we continue to provide these essential services, we must also maintain our churches and parish buildings. Significant ongoing costs, such as energy and insurance, must be met, and these expenses continue to rise annually.
If you are not currently contributing to the financial support of our parish, I invite you to reconsider your decision. Your support, in whatever way you can offer it, would make a real difference.
Fr. Tom Fogarty
(On behalf of the Parish Finance Committee).