What is Collection Money Used For?

(adapted from an article by Rev. Msgr. William J. King - Diocese of Harrisburg)

There is a serious obligation for a pastor to report each year on how the offerings or tithings of parishioners and other donors have been used.  Transparency in financial administration and accountability to donors are important values in the administration of Church goods.

The Church's Code of Canon Law requires that this annual report be given to the diocesan bishop and also to the parishioners. “Administrators are to render an account to the faithful concerning the goods offered by the faithful to the Church.”  MBS Parish provides this annual report during our annual parish meeting each year.  

See this year's annual meeting reports

As with most parishes and non-profits, our largest single set of expenses is staff: wages and benefits for parish employees. The second largest set of expenses is funding for Catholic faith formation: our Catholic school subsidy and our evangelization and discipleship programs for children and adults.

Other significant expenses include:  a diocesan tax that provides operating funds for the central offices and ministries of the bishop, parish utilities for all our buildings (heat, water, electricity, etc); maintainance of our buildings, grounds, and parking lots; property insurance, and to provide supplies and materials needed for our office and for Mass.