It’s hard to believe that I have been here in the parish almost two months. I have enjoyed getting to know so many people of the parish. I continue to Learn, Listen and Love my time with you. As you remember when I came in September, I invited parishioners to fill out a four-question survey with a return deadline of November 1, 2024. This survey was one mechanism to assist me in getting to know the parish. This week I have been reviewing the surveys and want to share some preliminary data gathering. As of November 1st, we had
48 Mass attendees who completed the feedback survey. Overall, parishioners feel that our parish is heading in the right direction with positive leadership, and many are ready to help with continued progress. Constructive suggestions were grouped into six categories that are standard governance areas for Catholic parishes.

Among the suggestions were many specific, individual ideas, as well as common themes for our parish family. The majority of comments fall under the Spiritual Life and Liturgy category, especially with opinions about Mass times. The church picnic was also a very popular topic, which falls primarily into the Stewardship category, but is also an important part of our Evangelization category. The other three categories are Faith Formation, Outreach, and Buildings & Properties.

All of these areas are important, and we will prioritize those items that are most time-sensitive, and then will follow up on the numerous remaining areas. We presented to the Parish Council and Finance Committee this week the findings of this survey. We will have a final report that will be shared with the entire parish in the coming weeks. Thank you for participating in the survey and the survey from the Diocese. I am looking forward
to a bright future filled with hope and enthusiasm for our little parish in the Valley.