AN APPEAL

TO: CABATUANANONS ANYWHERE

DATE: April 19, 2002

FROM : VOLUNTEERS FOR PARISH CONVENT CONSTRUCTION
(c/o Joe Maroma)

Dear townmates,

We have volunteered to undertake the homestretch fund drive for our Parish Convent construction because we believe it's time Cabatuananons themselves take a more active and direct hand in fund solicitation. At least 80% of past donations for various parish construction projects was personally raised by Msgr. Amad.

As we write a general appeal letter like this we are aware that we are reaching out to new prospects as well as those who have previously contributed - not only once but probably many times. In our letters we take the opportunity to mention Msgr. Amad's achievements, not to glorify him but to impress on benefactors the track record of integrity and performance of our parish priest as custodian of donated funds. We know that donating money requires a lot of trust and we are pleased that we have a trustworthy parish priest. I enclose a copy of a personal letter I sent to him last year on the eve of his elevation to Honorary Prelate.

Click here to read letter of Engr. Jose Maroma

The convent will not only serve as a residence of the parish priest. It will also house the rectory offices, a museum, conference hall, and 4 rooms for retired Cabatuananon priests. Construction is entering the finishing stage, which is the most tedious and cost-intensive . As I walked recently through the yet bare and rough rooms and halls I could already feel a surge of pride in being a Cabatuananon. I was not even thinking of Msgr. Amad. I was thinking of us Cabatuananons and the generations after us. What a beautiful treasure we are building for ourselves and our children. I could hardly believe we can put up such a fine structure. It's neither extravagant nor showy but it's tasteful, spacious and, abaw, kanami guid! And now I suddenly remember Msgr. Amad who conceived and started it all. He may no longer be around to enjoy the amenities of the convent before he leaves for another assignment. It would be nice if he did and I'm sure he can, if we respond generously and quickly enough.

My dear townmates, please come forward and help. We will send you later an architectural perspective and floor plans, including progress pictures of the convent either by mail or by internet. We suggest you remit your contributions to the DOLLAR or PESO accounts indicated in the preceding letter. You may transfer money by Western Union if convenient, provided you give us the remittance receipt number. We do not encourage checks drawn against foreign banks because clearing takes about 40 calendar days. Your contributions will be promptly acknowledged and we can mail you back a printed receipt if requested. All donations as well as expenses are disclosed to the Parish Finance Council which then prepares a weekly report read at Sunday masses.

We request you to spread the word. Please pass on this message to our other townmates and friends, including non-Cabatuananons who may be of help. We encourage you to visit the Cabatuan website at www.oocities.org/cabatuan_iloilo
 

We urge you to send through this website your e-mail addresses and those of your friends as well. If there's someone or some organization you may suggest we contact directly, please send us details through our website or to my personal e-mail address, jbmbpilo@skyinet.net.

So long dear townmates. You will be hearing from us many more times. It feels good to communicate with you. May God bless Cabatuan and her great people.

Sincerely,


(Sgd.) Joe Maroma