Retirement Purse FAQs

1. What is a “Purse”
   A Purse is a long-standing traditional approach of offering a gift to a retiring priest that is leaving a parish.  It is an easy way that anyone interested can contribute to a collective monetary gift for the retiree.
2. Why would I want to contribute?
   To offer appreciation, gratitude and recognition for the care and contributions Fr. Philip has made to our Parish and congregation during his 37 years as rector.  The gift is not for any specific purpose, and Fr. Phil will use it to enjoy his retirement.
3. Am I required to contribute?
   No, contributions are entirely voluntary.
4. Will Fr. Phil know who contributed?
   No, Fr. Phil will not know who contributed.
5. Will Fr. Phil know how much I contributed?
   No, Fr. Phil will not know the value of any individual contribution.
6. I prefer to give a gift directly to Fr. Philip rather than contribute to the Purse.  Is that ok?
   Yes.  There is no requirement to contribute to the purse.  Parishioners are welcome to honor Fr. Philip in the way they find most appropriate for their family.  We will have a box at the Retirement Party to collect cards.
7. How much should I give?
   Everyone’s budget and financial means are different, and we respect that everyone needs to steward their resources carefully.   If you are able to contribute, we encourage you to consider the impact of Fr. Philip’s ministry at our church and on your household and to give generously.
   
8. Is my contribution tax deductible?
   No, this is a gift to Fr. Philip, not to the church.
   
9. Who will know how much I contributed?
   The treasurer and assistant treasurer manage confidential information for pledges and contributions and treat all giving with the utmost confidentiality. 
   Alex vanVeldhuisen, while organizing the party, does not handle or see the Purse contribution even though we’ve asked that his name be used on the envelope.  Envelopes addressed to Alex signal to the treasurer that the contribution is for the Retirement Party and Purse and not for the parish fund.
   
10. Will the congregation learn the total contributions to the Purse?
    We will be able to announce the value of the Purse at the Retirement Party for contributions given prior to the event.  We will not be able to include personal gifts given directly to Fr. Philip, or contributions given on the day of the event.
    
11. How do I contribute?
    See https://www.churchholyspirit.org/37-yr-celebration.html for details. 
    You may contribute by PayPal or by check. 
     i.   Checks offer the benefit of avoiding the PayPal fee.
     ii. Checks can be sent by mail, dropped in the collection plate on Sunday or dropped in the black lockbox outside the administrative office.
    >Please indicate on the envelope and on the item line of the check that this is for the PURSE and add Alex vanVeldhuisen name.
    >Alex vanVeldhuisen, while organizing the party, does not handle or see the Purse contributions even though we’ve asked that his name is used on the envelope.  Envelopes addressed to Alex signal to the treasurer that the contribution is for the Retirement Party and Purse and not for the parish fund.