How did St. Justin the Martyr do it?
Father Mark Kreder kept things simple when he began encouraging donations through the Diocese’s COVID-19 Emergency Fund back in March.
All he did was ask.
Now, St. Justin the Martyr Parish, Toms River, has raised more than $23,000 – simply through the pastor’s weekly reminder from the pulpit, bulletin and website homepage.
“These are challenging times for all of us,” reads a message from Father Kreder that’s been circulating since the pandemic began. “This crisis has hit many of us hard, and our parish is no different. I am most grateful to all who have continued to mail in their weekly offerings or donated online.”
Recognizing the impact COVID-19 would have on the financial well-being of parishes and diocesan ministries, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., authorized a COVID-19 Emergency Fund in late March. Since that time, donations have been submitted and directed to two areas of need: Parish Offertory Continuity, and Diocesan Operations and Ministry Needs.
In mid-August, the diocesan Department of Development reported that the COVID-19 Emergency Fund received $62,294.30 from donors, with $41,130 directed to 51 different parishes.
Explaining that “collections are vital to our existence as a parish,” Father Kreder continues to encourage the parishioners to donate “if your circumstances permit.”
In the meantime, the faithful continue to follow the donation model that works best for them: mail, collection hoppers in the parish hall and of course, “Passing the Basket” at dioceseoftrenton.org/covid-19-emergency-fund.