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During the Clergy–Laity Congress in Cleveland, Ohio one workshop drew a large crowd for its focus on improving financial growth and forward- looking sustainability for our parishes: the Capital Campaign Workshop.
Held amid the broader conversations shaping the mission of the Archdiocese, the session offered practical information for parishes seeking to grow, renew, and sustain their parishes and ministries in a rapidly changing world, without relying solely on festivals and stewardship.
A capital campaign, participants learned, is not simply a fundraising drive. Rather, it is a structured, effort to support major needs within a parish while strengthening its long-term financial stability. Unlike annual stewardship appeals, capital campaigns call communities to look ahead, envisioning what their parish can become, and committing together to make that vision a reality.
Workshop leaders emphasized that successful campaigns begin not with dollars, but with purpose. Parish leaders were encouraged to clearly articulate their mission: Why is this project needed? How will it serve the faithful? What legacy will it leave for future generations? When rooted in a shared spiritual and communal vision, a capital campaign transforms from a financial obligation into a collective act of faith.
The session gave parish leaders practical tools for launching a successful capital campaign. Guided by expert panelists, participants will learn to assess readiness and capacity, plan strategically, and build effective campaign teams. They also learned to understand the importance of strategic planning and phased approaches to secure full community support–moving forward without leaving anyone behind and how to evaluate when to identify consultants to assist.
At the same time, the workshop acknowledged the realities facing many communities today. Economic pressures, shifting demographics, and evolving parish needs require thoughtful planning and adaptability. Yet the tone of the session remained hopeful, identifying real tools to guide parishes with the knowledge that every successful effort begins with small steps—faithful stewardship, clear communication, and a willingness to invite others into the work of the Church.
Attendees departed with a renewed understanding that a capital campaign is an opportunity for a parish to deepen its unity, strengthen its witness, and invest in the life of the Church for generations to come.
Presenters included Melpomeni Murdakes, Director of Parish Planned Giving; Rev. Aristotle Damaskos; Jim Bush; Tatiana Ramirez; Nicholas Chakos; and Steve Tibbs. An additional workshop on “Planned Giving & Endowments: Advance the Sustaining Power of Legacy Giving” will be held on July 2 at 11am.
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