Dear Friends,
Our commitment to a religious and service enterprise rooted in respect and inclusion is appropriate and necessary. We have always supported diversity, equity, and inclusion and strived to create a culture of belonging where everyone can do their best work and feel the love and grace and of God. Our programming and practices do not – and never have – included quotas or systematic preferences, nor does it mean compromising merit-based raises. However, our steadfast commitment to serve our parishioners and community, especially those on the margins, means that we cannot afford to do anything but hire, promote, and support the most qualified individuals and to remain in keeping with our core values.
We are going to continue to reach out to the Black community, Hispanic community, the LGBT community, the Veteran community, as well as remain committed to immigrants and refuges, the homeless and reducing our carbon footprint by upholding our Environmental Policies as a parish, school, cemetery, and outreach.
This is why on February 4th 2025 we have released a video and documents that clearly state our recommit to our diversity and inclusion programs, gives immigrants and refugees a handout for quick reference, and guides our Safety Team and School Team Members on what to do if Federal Agents approach them, or attempt entry to our parish or school and campus, as well as reaffirms our Core Values as a Franciscan Catholic Community rooted in the Gospel of Jesus, as our Christ.
I pray you will listen intently, support our mission, and give generously. The world needs us now more than ever.
In Hope and Peace,
Monsignor +Jim,
Pastor