Fr. Tim Thompson
Pastor of St. John the Apostle in Fort Worth, TX

Dear Eric,

I'm writing to let you know how pleased I am with the work you've done for St. John the Apostle. I think it will be encouraging for your staff—and perhaps other parishes—to hear about the impact you've had on our parish here in Fort Worth.

Let me give you a concrete example of how each of your services has made a difference in the parish, beginning with the Leadership Retreat last January. The people who attended the retreat had an overwhelmingly positive response to Deacon Don's presentation. His message of "discipleship through stewardship" has truly set the tone with our parish leadership, and is spilling over into the rest of the parish. As a result of the retreat, I think people are beginning to see that stewardship is about extending Christ's mission on earth.

Likewise, our monthly newsletter is helping parishioners to see that St. John's is a place where the Holy Spirit is alive and active. The photos look great and the articles have been very well-written. But I have to admit that my favorite part of the newsletter is my monthly letter. I find it to be a valuable opportunity to discuss issues that don't fit in a homily or bulletin note. Writing it each month helps me develop my own ideas about stewardship, and then pass them on to the whole parish.

I was surprised at how valuable our parish survey turned out to be. For example, when it pinpointed gaps in youth ministry and adult education, we were able to respond immediately by adding youth activities and establishing an adult education department. Without the survey, we may not have discovered these needs for quite some time! I am very thankful for the huge report that you furnished.

Lastly, I want to commend you for your hard work on our Stewardship Renewal. We had a great response—and it has made a big difference in the parish. Our ministries have felt an influx of "new blood." Our Scripture Study class, for example, had over 75 people at the last meeting, most of whom signed up during the Renewal. The "treasure" portion of the Renewal has been equally impressive—and that's always great news for a pastor! Here at St. John's we have a history of budget shortfalls, sometimes reaching $50,000 in the summer months. But this summer, after our fist Stewardship Renewal, we have completely erased this deficit, and income is still climbing. This is fantastic, especially at a time when many Catholic parishes are experiences serious declines in their offertory.

Overall, you guys have done a great job. I am glad we're working together, and I look forward to building on the progress we've already made.

In Christ,

Rev. D. Timothy Thompson