FAQs about Parish Finances

Updated September 2, 2026

What are the biggest financial challenges for our parish?

There are three:

1. Future Development: Happily, our parish is growing, and many parishioners look forward to a larger parking lot and to a permanent parish church. These and other aspects of our vision for the future are outlined in our three-phase Parish Master Plan (viewable here). First up: expanding our parking lot and adding a right turn lane!

2. Caring for our Campus: our buildings are 15-20 years old, which means that we need to start saving for replacement of our aging infrastructure (like HVAC and roofs).

3. Cash Reserves: On average, our cash reserves equate to approximately five months of operating expenses. We look at this like a family would look at their own finances. Any unexpected expense of large magnitude would impact our financial stability.

What is our best path forward to ensure a solid financial foundation that is resilient to instability and debt free?

The answers are simple, but faith and generosity are needed on all paths.

1. Fill the seats – evangelization is the greatest opportunity for our church.  Everyone can help in this effort by inviting people you know who live in OLA boundaries to encounter Christ and his church.  We have so much to offer; your nudge and the prodding of the Holy Spirit can help grow this community to its full stature.

2. Non-Donors to become regular donors through online giving.

3. Current donors to revisit their giving and, if able, increase it by 10%.

What is a building fund and why do we need it?

A building fund is a designated financial reserve used to support expenses related to the church’s physical buildings. This includes ongoing maintenance, repairs, and renovations, as well as mortgage payments or debt reduction associated with church property.

The current building fund stands a little over $70,000, and we would like to increase that to $100,000.  Not only is this fund our first line of defense for big ticket expenses like roofing, mechanicals and security, but every dollar over $100,000 will be used to pay down the mortgage (which has a current balance of a little less than $700,000).

How was the goal of 6 months of operating expenses in cash reserves established?

This was based on the specific financial needs and trends of our parish.   We projected what our financial position will be after all expenses are paid. Our review focused on the financial position of surrounding parishes. We sought guidance from objective sources on best practices.  The Parish Finance Council, in consultation with Fr. Bass, determined that 6 months of expenses on hand is a prudent figure for Our Lady of Angels.

What are the benefits of online giving?

• Convenience & Consistency

• Budget-Friendly

• Security & Safety

• Environmentally Friendly – fewer printed envelopes

• Easier Record-Keeping

• Supports Church Operations

Will I still receive envelopes if I prefer traditional giving with cash/checks?

Yes, we will still provide envelopes for those who register with the parish and choose this option.

Where can I find the parish financial statements?

Our fiscal year 2025-2026 financial statements are available—just scroll up!

The current fiscal year closes on June 30, 2027, and financial statements will be published after the year-end audit.  Once completed, the statements will be made available to the parish community.

What if I still have questions?

Please email your questions to info@ourladyofangels.com.