Latest Message from the Administrator’s Desk: Fr. Ton Nguyen – November 15, 2026
ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT – FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As I continue transitioning into my role as pastor of St. Mother Theodore Guerin Parish, I realize there is much to learn about our parish, its history, people, ministries, and financial responsibilities. During these first three months, I have been grateful for your warm welcome and the guidance of our staff and parish leadership.
I present our Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2026, as required by the Archdiocese of Chicago. Since I arrived after the fiscal year ended, this report reflects the parish’s financial activities before my arrival, from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. I recognize both our blessings and the challenges ahead.
As reported, the Church experienced an operating deficit, covered by savings. Sunday collections, our primary operating revenue, have declined while expenses continue to rise. With ten buildings to maintain, responsible stewardship remains essential. We also continue addressing financial and administrative responsibilities associated with the closure of St. Cyprian Church. I recognize the difficulties this transition has brought and remain committed to working with the Archdiocese thoughtfully and respectfully.
Our parish has 2,291 registered families, with approximately 15% contributing regularly. I am grateful for your generosity and encourage every family, according to their means, to support our shared mission. Our monthly Capital Improvement collection also helps meet facility needs.
Fundraising strengthens both our finances and fellowship. Events including the Craft Show, Lenten dinners, Bingo, garage sale, Parish Taste, and Golf Outing are possible because of dedicated volunteers. My sincere thanks to the Men’s Club, Women’s Club, and everyone who contributes their time and talents.
Our parish school serves 367 students under Mrs. Klich’s leadership, providing Catholic education while managing rising costs. I thank the Parents’ Club, Athletics, Scouts, and all who support our school.
Our Religious Education program serves 178 students under Ruthanne Swiatkowski, alongside our Special Religious Education program of 15–20 directed by Mary Murphy. These ministries remind us that our greatest investment is nurturing faith in future generations.
As your pastor, I am committed to listening, learning, and working together toward a sustainable future, guided by transparency, generosity, and our mission of proclaiming Christ. Some parishioners have asked me, “Father, do you ever sleep?” Well, yes, I do! But since my family is back in Vietnam, I often work a little extra because this parish is not only where I serve, but also where I have found a family. You are my family here, and families share both blessings and responsibilities. I want to serve you faithfully and be a good steward of God’s gifts. In that spirit, I will also increase my own weekly Sunday offering, because stewardship begins with each of us, myself included. And yes, at day’s end, I do sleep! Before doing so, I pray: “Lord, thank You for allowing me to serve You and Your people today. I have done what I could; now I entrust the rest to You. Guide us as one family to care wisely and lovingly for the parish You have entrusted to us. Amen.”
For questions about this report, please contact me or Laurie DePillo, our Business Manager, at 708-453-2555.
Thank you for your prayers, generosity, and faithfulness. Together, trusting in God’s providence, may we continue building a welcoming, united, and vibrant parish family.
Annual Parish Finance Report 2025-2026 (PDF)
May God bless you all!
In Christ,
Father Ton Nguyen, Administrator
Laurie DePillo, Business Manager
St. Mother Theodore Guerin Parish Finance Council