Our Heritage. Our Faith. Our Future

Elizabeth McGrath, Debbie & Al Smith
Campaign Co-Chairs

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How and when are we to make pledge payments?

The Diocese is going to be handling the pledge redemption for the parish. We are working with the Diocese this month to get all of the donor information set up so that pledge statements can be sent out in early April. In the meantime, you may continue to make your payments directly to the parish. We are also contacting donors who requested the credit card payment option in order to verify their card information. ACH forms are available at the Parish Center for those who would like the parish to automatically charge their checking or savings account each month.

When will our construction on the new campus begin?

The project is expected to cost $7.7 million. With the current cash on hand, the interest on our endowment and the sale of the current properties, we expect to have $2.5 million towards the project. This leaves $3 million to raise from our capital campaign.

The Diocese will not allow us to begin construction until we have received the appropriate number of pledges. Now is the time to make your decision to invest in the future of our parish. Please remember that you may pay your pledge over a 3 year period.

Why do we need a new Church and Parish Center?

Our strategic planning revealed that our parish is growing, with an increase in the population still expected in this area of South County. With the growth in our parish family has come the request for additional religious programs and activities, an increase in the size of the Religious Education program and an enhanced music ministry. With the decrease in the numbers of clergy, it is evident that the numbers of Masses will decrease. With the support of Durkee, Brown, Viveiros and Werenfels Architects, our new parish campus has a Master Plan to address our needs for years to come.

What went into the planning for this project?

For the past 5 years this parish has discussed the issues of improving conditions and enlarging existing facilities. The Steering Committee, with the support of the Parish Council and Futures Committee, has met to analyze our existing buildings, the potential for enlarging them and the costs for making improvements. Even with significant renovations, our current facilities cannot adequately accommodate our present and future needs. Regardless of the scale of possible renovations, we will still have a major highway running through the middle of our parish campus.

How will the building projected be financed?

The project is expected to cost $7.7 million. With the current cash on hand, the interest on our endowment and the sale of the current properties, we expect to have $2.5 million towards the project. Our capital campaign goal is $3 million, leaving approximately $2.2 million for the parish to carry in long-term debt.

What will happen to the existing facilities?

After a determination of the potential usefulness of our current facilities (church, rectory and parish center), it is anticipated that the property would be sold to an appropriate buyer. The proceeds from this sale would be used towards the construction of the new St. Bernard Church Campus.

When do I start paying my pledge and will I receive reminders?

You may indicate on your pledge envelope the date that you wish to begin paying your pledge. We expect that most people will begin their payments in January, however some parishioners made a payment before the end of the 2004 tax year. Many parishioners are making an initial down payment of 10% of their pledge, but this is not required. The Diocese will be handling the tracking of pledge payments for us and will send out reminders, based on whether you wish to pay monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually.

Can I pay my pledge with a credit card or automatic withdrawal from my checking account?

Yes, the parish has made arrangements for you to make your pledge payments with a credit card - please indicate on your pledge envelope the name of the credit card (MasterCard, Visa, AMEX, etc.) the credit card number, name on the account and expiration date. If you would prefer an automatic withdrawal from your checking account, please provide the necessary information, including name of bank, bank routing number and account number. If you have questions, please contact the parish office.

Why are we being asked to consider a three-year pledge?

By making pledges over three years, donors can adjust their payment schedules to suit their personal circumstances. The pledges will allow us to complete the project in a timely manner without burdening the parish with an unmanageable debt.

Is my pledge in place of my weekly offering or in addition to it?

Pledges to the campaign should be viewed as being above and beyond the weekly offering, which supports the day-to-day operations of the parish. The capital campaign is a special way to meet the needs that cannot be met through the weekly offertory.

Who will be asked to give to the campaign?

We hope and expect that every family and friend of the parish will give. This is our parish and our project. We understand that not everyone is as financially fortunate as others. Every gift, no matter how small, is both appreciated and needed. We want everyone to be able to experience and feel a part of the joy of seeing a new St. Bernard Church Campus.