Second Collections in 2026 (pt. 2)

The future of Saint Carlo Acutis Parish depends on our ability to nurture and sustain future generations of faithful Catholics. One of the most meaningful, effective, and lasting ways we accomplish this mission is through the education and spiritual formation of our children and young people. When we invest in their faith today, we are strengthening the Church of tomorrow and ensuring that our parish remains vibrant, faithful, and alive for generations to come. We are truly blessed to have a thriving, vibrant St. John Berchmans School and a strong Religious Education program. These ministries are at the very heart of our parish mission. They do far more than teach academic subjects or prepare children for sacraments. They help form disciples, instill the values and teachings of Jesus Christ, and provide young people with a solid foundation of faith that will guide their decisions, relationships, and sense of purpose throughout their lives.

While tuition and program fees are essential, they do not fully cover the cost of operating these ministries. Like many Catholic educational programs, there is a financial gap between what families can reasonably contribute and the true cost of providing quality education and faith formation. This includes staffing, facilities, curriculum, materials, and resources that ensure our children receive both academic excellence and meaningful spiritual growth. At present, this shortfall is met through fundraisers and the generous support of parishioners, parents, and donors who believe deeply in the value of Catholic education.

To help sustain these vital ministries, we are asking you to prayerfully consider supporting them through the parish’s second collection. This additional collection will directly benefit both SJB School and our Religious Education program, allowing them to continue on their strong path of growth, stability, and excellence. Your support helps ensure that these programs remain accessible, well-resourced, and able to meet the needs of our children and families. Your generosity will help offset essential expenses such as classroom materials, religious
education resources, and school supplies. It will also support meaningful enrichment opportunities for our children, including retreats and faith-building experiences like the Holy Fire Retreat for students in grades 6 through 9. These experiences often become powerful encounters with Christ, moments of prayer, reflection, and community that stay with our young people long after the event has ended.

We ask you to prayerfully reflect on the importance of Catholic education and faith formation in your own life and in the life of our parish. Please consider making a gift during the second collection at Mass. Your support is an investment in our children, our parish, and the future of Saint Carlo Acutis Parish.