Over the past three years, the Parish Pastoral Council, together with our pastor, Fr. Matija, has worked tirelessly to strengthen both the spiritual and practical life of our community. His leadership has brought renewed energy, creativity, and new ways to engage our parishioners.
Key Accomplishments
• Administration: A new website and parish bulletin, active social media channels, improved communication and coordination with the Archdiocese.
• Catholic Education: Re-established Croatian language school, sacramental preparation for First Communion and Confirmation, and increased family participation in parish life.
• Facilities & Maintenance: Renovated basement and stairwells, upgraded lighting, security systems, heating and cooling servicing, improvements to outdoor areas, and relocation to the new rectory for long-term sustainability.
• Parish Choir: Enriched liturgical celebrations, expanded repertoire, special performances, and newly upgraded audio equipment.
• Youth Council: Organized social gatherings, movie afternoons, a Christmas Market, and other self-funded initiatives demonstrating responsibility and sustainability.
• Prayer and Hospitality Ministries: Stations of the Cross, Rosary, Bible evenings, online school of prayer, spiritual retreats, and community fellowship over lunch and coffee.
Looking Ahead
We are excited to introduce two major initiatives for the coming year:
1️⃣ Fundraising Campaign — “$165,000 for Our Parish Family”Goal: Raise $165,000 between December 1, 2025 and December 1, 2026.These funds will support parish ministries, activities, maintenance, and continued modernization.The campaign will be fully transparent, with monthly reports and visible progress updates.
2️⃣ “Welcome Back Home” — Renewing Our Croatian Catholic CommunityA pastoral and cultural initiative aimed at reconnecting families and individuals who grew up in our parish but are no longer actively involved.Through personal outreach, cultural events, and faith gatherings, we hope to welcome them back into our parish family.
A Call to Participate
The future of our parish depends on all of us. We encourage you to:
• Attend Mass and parish events regularly
• Join ministries and volunteer
• Support our mission through stewardship and giving
• Invite others to reconnect with our parish family
On behalf of the Parish Pastoral Council, we express our heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers, ministry leaders, and parishioners for their commitment and love. Let us continue building a strong future for Our Lady of the Nativity Parish, united in faith and community.
