Last month one of the women on the Parish Council chewed out Fr Pat about asking the people for money for repairs–she kept contradicting what Fr Pat said about the dire need of the people to increase their giving. He did the math, and if each person gives just $5 more a month, the church will be able to pay its bills. Right now our offerings average $2000 below what we need just for bills. And, we have many major repairs facing us. Well, this month Fr Pat was ready. He brought in the figures. How much we are in debt. What the finances were in the last five years. How much it will cost to repair everything. People sat in stunned silence. But, alas, the conversation turned to finding blame for the current state, instead of the council unifying behind our pastor to enlighten the people. Jesus said ‘where your heart is, there your treasure will be.’ People do not treasure their church. It’s very sad.