June 13, 2008 Dear Friends, I have some very sad news to report.  You may already have seen in the newspaper, or heard from friends, of a possible embezzlement at our church. I am sorry you had to find out in this manner. In late April our bank notified me that we did not have enough money to cover our bills.  This came as a complete surprise to me.  In the weeks following I met with parish and school leadership to share with them the situation. Under the advice of legal counsel, we filed a report with the police on Wednesday, June 11 and the matter is now under investigation.  When a report of this nature is filed, it becomes a public document, which led to a premature article that appeared in Friday’s newspaper. The investigation is just beginning and we do not know yet what our loss is.    In situations like this we all crave more information and details, yet such speculation can easily become distorted and counter productive.  We do not have many answers, but in the next few weeks there will be a forensic audit that will make clear what has transpired. When the investigation concludes we will have a very clear financial picture as well as a much better understanding of what occurred. In the midst of this trouble, we have been blessed with an amazing outpouring of support from significant donors who have helped us to continue to conduct our business and stay in good order.  We are extremely grateful for their support and assistance.  We ask for your prayers, patience and understanding at this difficult time. Sincerely,    Rev. Michael Anderson, Pastor   Welcome!                  Saint Bernard’s, a vital Roman Catholic parish community, rich in German and Benedictine heritage, serves the North End community of Saint Paul.  The mission of Saint Bernard’s Parish Community is to proclaim Jesus Christ.  Saint Bernard’s Parish Community fulfills that mission by providing its parishioners, affiliated members, and neighbors with direction and support at every age and at every phase of their faith journey.