Dear Parishioners,
Catholics in Preble County have been calling St. Mary Church in Camden, Visitation of BVM Church in Eaton, and St. John Church in New Paris our collective “homes” since 1853. We have a rich history and a shared heritage that goes back many years. Even though our Catholic population is around only 3% of the total population in Preble County, it is the mission of Christ and His Church that carries us forward into the future ahead of us. Ever since arriving in Preble County, in July of 2019 as your pastor, the one thing that I remain indebted to all of you is the level of personal ownership you have for your parishes. 
Thank you for your generous time and availability to help in the many different ministries and opportunities here in our community and beyond. It is clear to me that the witness of Christ and His Church remains a vital part of our life here in Preble County. As a parish region with three churches, we are called to share and collaborate together as a parish region and at the same time appreciate and develop our own unique talents and gifts that God has given each of us. While operating as a Parish Region and sharing some expenses, each parish keeps their finances separate. All our parish region finances are managed with the oversight of myself and Kay Hansen, our Business Manager, and in consultation with your parish finance council. As we move forward together, may we continue to look to the Lord and to one another so that the glory of God might be known in our Preble County Catholic Region for many years to come.  
    Thank you for all your continued support of your parishes and the annual Catholic Ministries Appeal (Archbishop’s Fund Drive). You will see on the next few pages a breakdown of all the major expenses during the 2018-2019 Fiscal Year for each Church and the current budget for the 2019-2020 Fiscal Year. I promise on my part to be as transparent and up-front with you about all financial aspects that affect our churches and parish region. With this letter comes the invitation to enter into a deeper awareness of our call to “give back” from all that God has given us. I remind us all that there are many ways to give. Firstly, if everybody would consider giving a little extra in the collection basket on Sunday (suggestion of 10$ more each week), we could realize greater financial stability for all that we do in our ministry efforts. Secondly, if an increase in monetary donation is not possible, then please consider donating more of your time involved with different ministries or service opportunities at your Church. Last but not least, consider praying for someone in our parish by name or in general. It is important not to forget that through our prayers and witness, all in our parish community and surrounding area should come to know Christ in greater ways. 
    Thank you for your past support and continued giving. As we plan for the future, as decisions are made, and as we all come together, may the Lord God bless us and protect us. 
With deep gratitude,
Fr. David Doseck