What a wonderful, refreshingly frank letter about church finances.  I really enjoyed it.  In so many ways Dolan is saying what most pastors think.

 What is unsaid and is sorely lacking is a spirituality of  stewardship.  

 This letter is written by a  person who is a CEO and has a CFO yet I understand that this is deeply pastoral. 

As pastor ( ret.)  of a very poor  parish, I know the need for money to function: materials, office stuff, internet, phones etc. . we went deeper into debt every month... our bishop was supportive (although the CFO of the diocese was not).

I truly enjoyed and know that Dolan's  remarks in the letter are true.  And I know and appreciate that the Archdiocese provides enormous services to those in need  in so many ways and  the the very fabric of New York would be in tatters without the presence  and action  of  our Church. 

But R.C's and Dolan need spiritual formation in stewardship.  It is not just fundraising  but funding the works of mercy.