An east Donegal parish has issued a stark warning over its financial future.
The Roman Catholic parish of Urney and Castlefin has revealed that it is relying on dwindling cash reserves to keep the parish afloat.
Weekend Massgoers in the parish, which straddles the Donegal and Tyrone birder in the areas of Clady, Doneyloop and Castlefin, received an updated financial statement.
In the 12 months to the yearn ending December 31, 2025, the parish recorded a deficit of €18,315.
That was in a year when the parish received over €43,500 in one-off income.
Parish officials say the figures expose a worrying reality. Without a once-off €16,182 Covid insurance payment, last year’s deficit would have soared to €34,497, highlighting the ongoing challenge of funding the parish through regular weekly contributions alone.
The accounts, prepared by Moore (NI) Accounting in Derry and submitted to the Derry Diocesan Trust – for inclusion in the Derry Diocese’s consolidated financial statements – show that expenditure continues to outstrip recurring income at a time when attendances at Masses are continuing to fall.
The parish has been forced to rely on money held in its Parish Investment Account to plug funding gaps in recent years.
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That reserve stood at €53,727.75 in April this year.
“While these reserves have enabled the parish to continue meeting its financial commitments, they are finite and cannot sustain ongoing annual deficits indefinitely,” a notice in the parish newsletter said.
“The Parish Finance Committee continues to review the parish’s financial position and explore ways to ensure the long-term sustainability of parish finances.
“This is becoming increasingly challenging as parish attendance and regular contributions continue to decline, while the cost of maintaining out churches, parish buildings and supporting pastoral ministry continue to rise…
“… As this insurance payment was a one-off receipt, it will not be available to support parish finances in future years.”
The parish received €43,538 in non-recurring income during 2025, made up of a €16,182 Covid insurance payment, €22,809 raised through fundraising, €2,918 from Blessing of the Graves collections and €1,629 from other one-off income.
In a message to parishioners, church leaders thanked the community for its continued generosity and appealed for ongoing support.
The newsletter added: “We are deeply grateful to all parishioners for your continued generosity and support. Your regular contributions enable us to maintain our Churches, support the pastoral and sacramental life of the parish, and continue the mission of the Church within our community.
“We ask for your continued prayers and support as we work together to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of our parish.”