The first blessing for which we can be thankful is that the diocese is paying Jordan's modest salary for this year. In a parish cluster where money is tight (both parishes cannot meet operating expenses from Sunday collection but rely on returns from investments and bequests to operate in the black), the diocese's support makes it possible for us to have a seminarian on pastoral year here. The second blessing has been Jordan's considerable apostolic work. I have asked him to focus on English-speaking youth and young adults. Jordan and I share the responsibility of teaching in each classroom in the school once a week. Through Jordan's work, we have been able to organize young adult activities, the first year-long schedule for a high school youth group in years, and the beginnings of a middle school youth group. Jordan has also been instrumental in training and re-training the altar servers at Saint Paul. The results of his hard work have been very encouraging. We are starting to form a core group of young adults and high school students as well as laying the foundation for the future of the high school youth group in recruiting for the upcoming middle school retreat. Our altar servers are beginning to deepen their spirituality as they serve at Holy Mass.
One of the things that has become obvious to me is that after Jordan leaves us in the summer of 2020, we will need to have someone on staff to continue his work. It strikes me as being somewhat providential that as part of the Uniting in Heart pastoral plan the diocese is mandating that each pastorate will have to hire an evangelization director. Parish leadership at Saint Paul has already expressed interest in combining this position with a paid youth and young adult minister. The situation at Holy Family is somewhat more complicated, as Saint John in Hartford City and Saint Mary in Dunkirk will have a considerable say in what will happen for the new pastorate. This topic will be one that will come up at meetings with the parish leadership from the other parishes in the new pastorate.
My own experience in ministry is that with the Lord's help and our willingness to spend ourselves to build the kingdom, anything is possible! In order to continue the good work that Jordan is doing, I need your help when it comes to time, talent, and treasure. This starts with your prayers and sacrifices offered up for the continued success of our intentional outreach to youth. It continues with your willingness to support initiatives with your financial generosity and volunteer support. When we consider benefits, payroll tax, retirement, and salary , we are looking at around an additional $55,000 or so in next year's budget to find someone qualified for this professional ministry. In order for this ministry to thrive, we will need many volunteers in a variety of different capacities.