Frequently Asked Questions about Contributions

What does "Improvement and Maintenance" mean?

100% of this remains in the Parish. It's a top priority of our parish that the structure and beauty of the Cathedral be maintained, and that our other buildings are kept sound and in repair. This is the first use of any money in these envelopes.

The white envelopes for each Sunday go for utilities and parish staff salaries. What else?

By agreement among the parishes of Springfield, 53% of the money in these envelopes goes to the Springfield Catholic Schools so that we may do our part to maintain a consolidated Catholic School System in Springfield. Also, 2.5% goes to the Diocese to help the Bishop with his work in southern Missouri.

The remaining 44.5% of the money stays in the parish to pay for the utilities and salaries; for Religious Education of all Catholic children and adults in the parish and those who would like to become Catholic; for the poor; for altar and sanctuary expenses such as songbooks, hosts and wine; for social activities, for youth programs, and for other maintenance expenses.

What do we have a separate collection for Tuition Assistance. Isn't this covered in the 53% to Springfield Catholic Schools?"

No, we pay for Tuition Assistance in addition to the 53%.

I pay my tithe to the Church at the beginning of each month with my bills. Do you need for me to write a check for each envelope?

No, but be sure to put the amount for each envelope. However, the easiest way is to setup an automatic withdrawal with the various amounts to each envelope specified for the year. Call Judy Rippee, 417-831-3565, ext. 110, or e-mail her at jmrippee1@juno.com.

Special Collections

Peter's Pence Collection 100% of the money in this envelope or loose in the collection on the last Sunday of June goes to the Holy Father. Envelopes marked for other special collections will be used according to the wishes of the donor.

St Vincent de Paul collections go 100% toward helping the poor in our parish and city.

Diocesan Development Fund (DDF) goes 100% toward Bishop Leibrecht's work in southern Missouri. There is no envelope. Each year in May you are asked to fill out a pledge card and this is sent to the diocesan offices and they bill you directly.