KC Reporter

The Diocesan Finance Council has approved the operating budget for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, beginning July 1, 2024. This approval is one of the primary responsibilities outlined in Canon Law for the Council, alongside reviewing the annual audit. Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr., of the Catholic Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph accepted this recommendation.

Angela Laville, Diocesan Finance Officer, emphasized the importance of transparency regarding funding sources and allocation: "Bishop Johnston and I have a responsibility to be clear in describing for you where the money comes from and how it is allocated."

The total budget amounts to $15.80 million, reflecting an increase of 8.87% from the previous fiscal year. The largest income source is the Diocesan Cathedraticum Assessment at $7.2 million, an increase from last year.

The Annual Catholic Appeal will contribute $2 million towards programs including education and pastoral ministries. Additionally, net interest income is expected to provide $300,000.

Cost categories include school office operations, direct school allocations such as support for high schools and academies, social ministry subsidies like those given to Catholic Charities, pastoral ministries support involving various diocesan offices and initiatives.

Support for priests and seminarians remains significant with seminarian education projected at $1.2 million for 23 seminarians this year.

External allocations fund broader church entities like Missouri Catholic Conference and U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Diocesan administration expenses are detailed across multiple offices including communications and property management.

Laville noted that while creating a balanced budget posed challenges, efforts were made to fund operations while investing in future projects within the Diocese's strategic plan.

Questions regarding this financial plan can be directed to Angela Laville via phone or email as provided by her office.