September 20, 2012

Dear Parishioners of St. Philomena & St. Michael,

For the past year we have been involved in the GIFT (Growing In Faith Together) process initiated by Bishop Jenky to explore ways in which we can further collaborate to advance the Church's mission for the future.

Bishop Jenky has issued his Directives which will guide the implementation process of either merging, linking or partnering of our parish communities. The attachments include the entire letter from Bishop Jenky as well as his official decree.

Bishop Jenky's Directive states, "Whereas, I designated the parishes of St. Michael, Bement and St. Philomena, Monticello, as an organizational cluster united in this consultative process (cf. Diocesan Statute, 9.3.5)." This decree means the relationship between St. Philomena and St. Michael remains pretty much the same. More will be said at Masses this weekend. It appears that St. Joseph parish, Ivesdale, will be linked with St. Patrick Church, Tolono

The Core Team members of St. Michael and St. Philomena are to attend a regional meeting later this month to begin the implementation process.

This e-mail is sent out now to keep you informed, in case you are out of town or homebound. If you know of someone who did not receive this e-mail, please have them contact the parish office.

Rev. Bruce D. Lopez