Dear Parishioners,
I hope that you have heard about St. Francis Xavier’s planning study, which will begin May 4. The study will provide our leaders with valuable feedback about projects proposed for our church and about the possibility of a major fundraising effort. We are working the Steier Group, a Catholic fundraising firm, to conduct the study. I know many of you have questions, so here are a few of the most common ones about the planning study process and what it could mean for our future.
Q. What is a planning study?
A. The study gauges support for the proposed master plan for the campus and for a potential major fundraising effort called a capital campaign. The study, which lasts about five weeks, will also help identify possible volunteer leaders and set a financial goal should we choose to move forward with a campaign.
Q. How will the study determine whether there is support?
A. The Steier Group will survey the entire St. Francis Xavier community as part of the planning study. The firm will compile your feedback and present it to our church leadership. We will then make an informed decision about the projects and a potential campaign. Working with an experienced, professional development firm like the Steier Group ensures an effective, unbiased, and successful planning study.
Q. Why should we conduct a planning study?
A. Many churches use planning studies when considering a fundraising campaign. It is a wise first step because the study provides valuable information on how everyone feels about the proposed projects and a potential capital campaign. That information also can help customize a campaign that really fits with the unique needs of our church.
Q. What is a capital campaign?
A. A capital campaign is a fundraising effort for big projects and needs, such as major renovations, new buildings, and eliminating debt. Capital campaigns fund specific projects and needs. They are not for regular maintenance, ongoing costs, such as salaries and utility bills.
Q. What is expected of church members during the planning study?
A. We ask only for your feedback and prayers during the study. You will be asked to take part in a personal interview with a member of the Steier Group team or to fill out an online or mailed questionnaire – both of which should take less than an hour. Your input will help us make wise decisions about the projects and a potential campaign. If we move forward with a capital campaign, you will be invited to participate in a variety of ways over the next few weeks and months.
I hope this answers many of your questions and adds to your excitement for the future of St. Francis Xavier. If you have additional questions, please contact me at any time.
Hope and Joy,
Fr. Joe Culotta
Pastor
