AUGUST 31, 2006
In the current issue of Vestry Papers, George Olmstead, Senior Warden at St. Christopher’s Church in Chatham, MA, shares learning from their ongoing $4 million campaign.
Make planning a priority
The first step was to form a planning committee. They spent two years assessing the parish’s strengths and weaknesses, visiting other congregations, meeting with ministry leaders, and visioning for the future. They developed plans for worship, congregational life, ministries and outreach, and published recommendations for the congregation. The building committee began work by interviewing and listening to members of the congregation, resulting in a needs assessment for St. Christopher’s.
Get professional help
Based on the advice of other Episcopal congregations, the building committee hired an experienced architect. When designs were developed, they were presented so everyone knew what was being planned. The capital campaign committee also hired a development consultant. Their process included a feasibility study consisting of one-on-one interviews and written survey questionnaires. More than 90% of respondents were in favor of the plans.
Details, details, details
Following the advice of the development consultant, the campaign process included a well structured committee, printed materials, spiritual focus, newsletter communications, volunteer recruitment and training, computerized records management, and parish-wide social events.
Strong clergy leadership
The rector of St. Christopher’s has been involved throughout the entire process, serving on both the planning and development committees, and has been able to effectively share his enthusiasm with the total parish.
Make the vestry ambassadors for the campaign
In addition to including vestry members on committees, vestry members led tours of the church facilities for parishioners, wrote newsletter articles, exercised fiduciary responsibilities, and participated in making capital campaign calls to the congregation.
Only one month into their campaign, and St. Christopher’s had already raised more than half their goal.
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If you are interested in learning more about capital campaign services available through the Episcopal Church Foundation, or in subscribing to Vestry Papers on www.EpiscopalFoundation.org or call 800-697-2858.
Vestry Papers is published by the Episcopal Church Foundation and its goal is to inform, inspire and affirm Episcopal vestries in their work. |
