Diocesan capital campaign feasibility study begins

By Bernie Hewitt, Director
Development Services

Many people have asked if we are engaging in a capital campaign. The answer is not yet. Before entering into a capital campaign, we must conduct a feasibility study, also known as a market study. We have selected Guidance in Giving, Inc., to help us with this study this month and next.
Guidance in Giving works with Catholic dioceses to implement stewardship and provide counsel with capital campaigns. They have assisted many other Catholic dioceses similar in size to our diocese. Guidance in Giving also completed the previous feasibility study in 1999. At the conclusion of that study, they made the recommendation to not pursue a capital campaign.
This year’s study will include a personal interview with each parish priest and randomly-selected parishioners. Other parishioners will receive a mailed survey. The survey will seek feedback on items such as the needs of the diocese as identified in the Come to the Light document, prioritizing those needs and support for these needs.
Once all feasibility information is compiled, Guidance in Giving will provide a recommendation to Bishop George Leo Thomas regarding a capital campaign.
A copy of Come to the Light can be found at your local parish or by visiting www.diocesehelena.org. Further information regarding Guidance in Giving can be found by visiting www.guidanceingiving.com. Should you have any questions, comments or concerns, feel free to contact your parish priest or call me at 406-442-5820. Monthly updates will continue.

Published in The Montana Catholic, Vol. 23, No. 10, October 19, 2007.