Gifts and Pledges to Date
$249,741

Number of Gifts
869

Percentage of Target
83%

St. Joseph Parish is once again embarking on a Special Projects Fund in conjunction with the annual Catholic Services Appeal (CSA). Last year, we successfully met our CSA obligations in support of the ministry of the Archdiocese of Detroit and raised additional money to replace the deteriorated front and side parking lots. This fall, we will celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the founding of our parish. For the St. Joseph Special Projects Fund/CSA this year, we are focusing on our historic church building. The portion of the original church built in 1940 is badly in need of preservation. The Finance and Administration Commission has targeted the tuck-pointing of the exterior stone of our historic church, its stone rectory, and the preservation of the original stained-glass windows as this year’s project. If we reach our goal of $300,000, we also hope to build a new parish entrance sign on M-24 as a beacon to the community.

The advantages of linking St. Joseph Special Projects Fund with the CSA are many. As you may know, the support of the Catholic Services Appeal is required by the Archdiocese and any shortfall in our target of $210,000 must be paid out of the parish budget. However, every dollar contributed over and above the parish target returns directly to the parish. Additionally, pledges and gifts to St. Joseph Special Projects Fund/CSA can be made in convenient monthly or quarterly payments over the year, or through electronic debit. Mailing costs and billing are handled through the Archdiocese. Further, every dollar contributed above the CSA target is NOT subject to the usual Archdiocesan tax (6%) and returns directly to the parish. The parish leadership feels this is a “win-win” opportunity for St. Joseph.

During this 80th Anniversary Year, we reflect on the legacy and solid foundations left to us by the sacrificial giving of those who have preceded us. Now is the time for us to preserve and pass on to future generations what we have received as a gift. I ask that you prayerfully consider this and do your best to support our Parish. It is my hope that EVERY family will make a gift, whether large or small, and generously support this year’s St. Joseph Special Projects Fund/CSA.