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Q. Why has the parish hired a professional finance consultant?
A. St. Stephen Cathedral consulted with other churches that have recently conducted major fund-raising campaigns, and we were advised that contacting and visiting parish members is a very time-consuming job, requiring much organization, and great demands on volunteers.
For these reasons the parish has engaged Kirby-Smith Associates, an experienced professional organization to direct and support our fund-raising activities. Since 1938 Kirby-Smith has helped more than 10,000 other churches meet their financial goals. Their staff is largely comprised of retired pastors, and dedicated men and women who will be making personal visits to the homes of our parish members. Kirby-Smith will receive a flat fee for their services that is unrelated to the amount of money raised.
Q. What will happen during the visit?
A. The visits are short and very informal. You will be asked to: 1) list your interest in various church activities, and 2) discuss your commitment to the campaign and record your Faith Promise. The Faith Promise is a gift commitment, which represents a sacrifice to support God's work. The total pledge may be given over the three-year campaign period, and you will receive specially marked envelopes that you will use to make your contributions.
Even if you will not be making a financial commitment at this time, please welcome a visit so that our parish may benefit from your input.
Q. Are Faith Promise contributions tax deductible?
A. Yes, if you itemize your deductions.
Q. Is my Faith Promise contribution in addition to my regular offering?
A. Yes. Funds raised for the restoration of our buildings will be used only for that purpose. The parish has operating expenses (utilities, salaries, supplies, etc.) for which we must rely on regular contributions from our parishioners.
Q. Can I support our campaign, Preservation for the Next Generation in other ways?
A. Absolutely! We are especially in need of your prayers. In addition, gifts of property, stocks and bonds, or other investments are welcome. You may also wish to consider naming St. Stephen Cathedral in your will or as your life insurance beneficiary. Please contact the parish office for more information. |
