In light of the economic impact of the COVID19 pandemic, many of you may be wondering what kind of impact this is having on St. Edmund’s. Our pledge and gift receipts were not seriously impacted through mid-March but in recent weeks we have seen a decline that, if sustained, could prove challenging in the months ahead. We have applied for some of the emergency funds the government has offered through the CARES Act but at this time we do not know how much we will receive. We will make every effort to keep the parish informed as we work our way through this time and appreciate your support as you are able.
We expect that the current economic uncertainty will make it difficult for some parishioners to keep pledges current at least in the short run and we want you to know that we understand that your first priority is to take care of yourselves and your family at this time. We are trying to do the same with our St. Edmund’s family, both at the church and the school, and to-date all of our employees continue to receive regular pay and benefits. As you know, our clergy and volunteers have been working hard to provide the parish with the best opportunities possible week by week for shared worship and communal conversations.
Although we could not bring you the beautiful flowers and amazing live music in our sanctuary that we typically enjoy at Easter, most of our other operating costs are not significantly changed at this time. If you are in a position to do so, we will be deeply appreciative of your effort to keep your pledge current; if we can help you set up any electronic payment to simplify the process, please contact our bookkeeper, Wendy, at bookkeeper@saintedmunds.org, or our treasurer, Gail, at treasurer@saintedmunds.org.
