I wanted to let you know that as a parish 2% of our ordinary collection will go to 4 groups, in rotation.  As a tithing parish (giving a percentage in gratitude for our many blessing), it is important to support various Godly works.  It is part of our parish to reach out to various groups to assist as we can.

We will be giving 2% from our monthly totals to Madonna Renewal Center, the Richmond Food Pantry, St. Vincent de Paul Society, and the Tuition Assistance Fund at St. John the Baptist Catholic Grade School.  Below is a brief description of their work and what our money supports.

If you wish to give with your own tithes, please feel free.  Thank you for your gifts and tithes to St. Joseph Catholic Church.  Your continued generosity means so much to me as your pastor and to the groups we help.

1) Madonna Renewal Center

1209 South Walnut Avenue

 Freeport, IL 61032-5555

This program is run by the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.  It is a safe haven for adult pregnant women and their infants.  It provides food, shelter and security for up to 18 months for those in need.

2) Richmond Food Pantry

P.O. Box 78

Richmond, IL 60071

The Pantry helps those in need with food and other products that Food Stamps won’t cover.  We have our monthly Reverse Collection to help the pantry.  Anytime of the year, help is appreciated.

3) St. John the Baptist Catholic School

2302 W. Church St.

Johnsburg, IL 60051

The Tuition Assistance Fund helps poorer families who wish to have their child(ren) in a Catholic  school, but, can’t always pay the bill, usually due to the loss of employment.  Any gift, any time is a great thing to do.

4) St. Vincent de Paul Society

2118 Main St.

P.O. Box 129

Spring Grove, IL 60081

Helps the poor and needy by assisting with bills and even rent.  As one never knows when need arises, St. Vincent de Paul is there to help.