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At the end of the Masses last weekend I mentioned that there has been some chatter with regard to the condition of the cemetery. I want to apologize for letting things get out of hand and for coming across as seemingly neglectful of the cemetery. I, like you, also want the cemetery to look beautiful. I share your concerns. The issue at hand, and the reason why I have been hesitant to do much, is that we do not have much in our bank account. The cemetery is nearly full. We rely mainly on burials for income - and with many people choosing to be cremated, we generally do not make much money from that. Further, not many people are buying burial plots - and our prices are among the lowest in the area. We do have an envelope but that hardly generates enough cash to offset the cost of maintenance. I would like to just take a minute to highlight the concerns and offer an explanation for why we are in this position:
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- Recently, some work was done in the cemetery that was donated by a parishioner - the removal of a section of the arborvitae trees - which has left the area now overgrown. The idea was to put in a fence along that area but we need to wait until prices come down before that can happen. While that is taking longer than expected, the area got worse and worse. I am now working on clearing the area and grinding down the stumps.
- The cost of just mowing, for example, is pricey and adds up as the summer goes on. I made the decision, early on in the spring, only to mow every 2 weeks in order to save money. That of course, makes the cemetery look overgrown. I have asked the landscaper to mow more frequently.
- The overgrown dirt pile... Contrary to some opinions there is no trash in the pile. First, a dirt pile in a cemetery is not uncommon. The one in St. Stans is a bit bigger than when I first arrived and obviously much of it is left untouched and overgrown. I had decided to let it be due to the cost to remove it. I am now working with a local farm to remove the pile at no cost.
- With regard to income, on average we have 15 burials per year. Of those, 50% are full casket and 50% are cremation. That generates, on average about $4500 per year - the exact cost of landscaping. Therefore, in the last 2 years we have barely broken even.
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In order that these issues get resolved for the long term, not just a quick fix only to have them return, I have begun a conversation with the Diocese of Springfield to take over the management of the cemetery. Until a final decision is made, these issues are being handled. Please be patient with me as I am working on it.
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Summerfest 2021: Mark your calendars for Summerfest parish picnic - Sunday August 29, 2021 11:30am-3pm! Tickets are $12/person, $15 at the door; children under 10 are FREE!! Join us for music, food, fun and games!!
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The Take and Eat Ministry is in need of volunteers. For more info please contact the office or Deacon Rod at deaconrod2017@gmail.com.
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The next meal is scheduled for Saturday August 21, 2021.
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There are MANY openings for Masses to be offered for loved ones both living and deceased. Please contact the office to book a Mass.
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Sign ups for 2021-2022 Religious Education will take place at Summerfest, Sunday August 29, 2021. CCD classes start on Sunday September 26, 2021 for all grades.
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Join with members of our parish community on the First Friday of each month at 6pm, starting September 3rd as we pray a rosary for our nation. All are welcome to join since we all need prayer and should ask God to spare our world of more trials. God bless you!
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Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesdays 12pm, concluding with Benediction at 6pm.
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Confessions are held on Wednesdays at 5pm; Saturdays at 3pm and by appointment with Fr. Jon or Fr. Frank.
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There is no new Coffee with FJ, but if you didn't catch the last episode, see below:
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Support Holy Family
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when you shop at Amazon with Amazon Smile!
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Click the image below to set Holy Family as your charity!
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Holy Family Roman Catholic Church
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