2011/12 Annual Financial Report

Dear Columban Benefactors and Friends,

Thank you for your generous support of Columban mission. The support of our benefactors allows us to make Jesus Christ known to people around the world. One of life’s greatest rewards is helping us spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. You have a special role in this effort, building a better place by helping others experience the transforming power of Christ’s love. And it is that same love that will be returned to you in abundance.

From livelihood programs in the Philippines to flood relief in Pakistan to education and care for the developmentally disabled in China, Columban missionaries are able to respond with prayer, direct assistance and financial assistance to those most in need.

We hope the closer look at Columban mission and our finances provided in this report conveys the depth of our gratitude and the efforts we make to be good stewards of the funds given us. We recognize the importance of learning about the charities you support allowing you to make prudent decisions regarding your donations. Thank you for your care and generosity.

As you review our Society’s figures, I would like you to keep in mind a few facts about the Columban Fathers. The Columban Fathers are classified in Catholic Church law as a “Society of Apostolic Life.” We have expenses similar to those of any religious community, including health care, retirement for aged and incapacitated members and education and training for seminarians. Certain expenses, such as transportation, health care and communications, are higher than those of other Catholic communities due to our international focus.

Columban missions throughout the world require numerous resources. Not all of the needed resources will appear on our financial report. The sacrifices and generous spirit of priests, seminarians, lay missionaries and devoted employees along with the prayers and selflessness of the people who support Columban mission are the priceless resources that have supported us and allow us to move forward.

As always, our priorities remain making Jesus Christ known, forming Eucharistic communities and helping struggling peoples regain their dignity. In one country after another, our missionaries are engaged with the local people to build a better world, a world where Jesus Christ reigns in truth and justice, love and peace.

Gratefully yours in Christ,

Fr. Timothy Mulroy
U.S. Region Director
Columban Fathers