A long-time spring tradition has been the launch of the annual appeal, the Diocesan Offertory Program. However, in response to concerns expressed by the priests of the Diocese of Helena, Bishop George Thomas has agreed to postpone the DOP until the fall of this year.

“Considering the current economy, the needs of our parishes and the recent wrap-up of our capital campaign, from Age to Age, it seems most appropriate to honor the needs of those who sustain our parish and diocesan ministries, said Bishop Thomas. “I am extremely grateful for the high levels of participation experienced with our from Age to Age capital campaign and anticipate a successful annual appeal in October of this year.”

During the January Presbyteral Council/College of Consultors meeting, concerns were voiced that launching another campaign so close on the heels of the capital campaign – particularly for block III, which comprised 57 percent of the overall campaign goal – would present a heavy burden to many donors.

The DOP 2009 kick-off weekend will be October 10-11 and the commitment weekend will be October 17-18.

Stewardship Services Director Glenda Seipp said that two-thirds of the DOP 2007 donors contributed to the from Age to Age campaign during 2008; DOP 2008 was included in the capital campaign, and 85 percent of the $1.7 million DOP goal has been received to date.

Additionally, since October 1, 2008, 90 donors have contributed an additional $15,645 to DOP 2008, independent of the capital campaign.

“Donors are most comfortable with their own established patterns of giving. Anytime that we present a donor with an appeal we have to recognize the relationship between the focus and the timing of the appeal. Stewardship is really about making connections and following through on commitment. Our folks are undoubtedly connected and committed to their families, parishes, diocese and many other areas of valuable ministry. Some of our committed donors seem to prefer the traditional diocesan annual appeal – and that’s okay!” Seipp said.

For more information on the Diocesan Offertory Program, visit www.diocesehelena.org/dop or contact Glenda Seipp at 406-442-5820, ext. 35 or by e-mail to gseipp@diocesehelena.org.


Published in The Montana Catholic, Vol. 25, No. 4, April 17, 2009.