First, thank you to all of the diocesan and parish treasurers who have worked hard over the past two years. Sharing your talents is a blessing to all of us in the League.
In the Spring 2018 issue of the Canadian League Magazine, Janet McLean, our National Secretary Treasurer gives an overview of the treasurer’s function. She also reminds us that the council’s funds belong to the members, and that all members are responsible for these funds to be used wisely.
We have now experienced two years of National questionnaires. I received reports from all 6 dioceses. There were 84 parishes who reported online. A few of the diocesan treasurers contacted 7 other parishes that had not reported online, for a total of 91 parishes reporting.
The 2017 form was improved over the 2016 one, but there were still some issues that I noticed with it. The biggest issue is that National seems unable to capture the value of donations that parishes and dioceses make. Historically, across BC and the Yukon, combined parish donations have averaged about $500,000.00 (Half a million dollars) per year. On this year’s report from National, the total they were able to capture was $165,761.93. National was unable to give any breakdown of which charities we supported—including National Voluntary funds.
Otherwise, all of the reporting councils are following the Guidelines for Treasurers to the best of their ability. They are working hard at being good stewards.
I know just how generous the members of this League are at all levels of the League. The donations we make through our fundraising are over and above what we donate in our day-to-day activities. We are using the gifts that God has given us to share with others, and to be the hands and feet of Christ.
May Our Lady of Good Counsel bless us all.