Fr. Joe Juracek’s letter:

A few days ago, a young woman stopped me in the back of the church and said, “Father, I just want to thank you for the church being open. I want to come in and thank God for a wonderful favor granted to me, and you are the only church open in this whole area. So, thank you!”

Let me take this opportunity to first of all say:

Thank you for sharing your time and financial generosity with the community of St. Francis Church.

As we gather together in a spirit of gratitude this Thanksgiving, we are reminded that, as St. Francis said: It is in giving that we receive. This simple yet profound sentence encapsulates the essence of the season and the mission of the Church of Saint Francis. Our parish, as well as each of us individually, has received so much from our generous God.

And as we celebrate God’s generosity to us, we should also consider how we may spread that abundance to assist others, and that brings me to speak with you candidly about the challenges we are facing as a parish community.

At the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, we have recently encountered financial difficulties that have strained our resources. These challenges, though formidable, serve as an opportunity for us to come together as a faith community, strengthened by our unwavering commitment to our mission.

This Thanksgiving, we are embarking on a special campaign
to raise $100,000 to begin to address these financial difficulties.

The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi needs your help now. Your generous support is not just a request; it is a heartfelt plea from the Friars, your fellow parishioners, and the place you call your spiritual home.

Like belonging to a family, there are many obligations that we all share. The same applies to a parish community, such as caring for each other, being present to each other, and even financially supporting each other. Each of us share a responsibility to ensure that our church can continue to be a place of worship, solace, and community support. Our financial support can also serve as a sign of hope in the teachings of Christ and our love for one another.

You know that Saint Francis Church is much more than just bricks and mortar; it is place of faith, love, and Franciscan community.

By contributing to our Thanksgiving campaign, your giving will allow us to help continue our ministries, pay our bills, do some needed building repairs.

In believing and acting upon the words of St. Francis,
“It is in giving that we receive,”
we will indeed find our deepest blessings this Thanksgiving.

May the Lord continue to bless us always!

Fr. Joe Juracek, OFM
Pastor

If you would like to give online, please use the form below.
You may also mail a check to The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, 135 W. 31st Street, New York, NY 10001
If you would like to give another way (gift of stocks, Donor advised Fund, etc.) please contact Fr. Joseph Juracek at 212-736-8500 x232 or at jjuracek@stfrancisnyc.org.