Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope? Find your answer here!
What is the campaign goal? What will the money go toward?
The financial goal for Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope is $200 million. Money collected from the campaign will be allocated to six areas: parish priorities, Catholic education, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, clergy retirement and Catholic human services.
How can I be sure that the money raised will be spent for the intended projects?
A separate 501( c ) (3) non-profit charitable organization “fund” has been established for all money collected through Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope. The money will remain separate and distinct from current Archdiocesan funds, and can be used only for the six purposed outline above.
How will our parish benefit?
Every parish in the Archdiocese will participate in the campaign, and every parish benefits. Thirty-five percent of all funds raised in a particular parish will be returned to that parish to address pressing local needs. Parishes can use their funds to address capital project, retire or reduce debt, create a parish or school endowment, or other special projects identified by that parish. The entire Catholic community will benefit as well, as charitable funds will support Catholic education, formation for clergy and lay ministry, and social services.
The economy is tough right now…is this the best time to conduct a campaign?
Research shows that even in poor economic times, people continue to give to help those most in need. As need becomes greater, more people turn to the Church for assistance. This campaign will help the Archdiocese support its outreach to the most vulnerable. Catholics have a rich tradition of giving not from our excess, but from our need. We hope we can count on your support.
Didn’t the Archdiocese just conduct a major fund-raising drive?
More than 15 years ago, The Archdiocese completed a successful capital and endowment campaign, Catholic Life 2000. The endowments established through that campaign continue to serve the needs of the Archdiocese in many ways. However, there are still immediate and long-term capital, endowment and programmatic needs, on the parish level and beyond. Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope will enable the Church to begin its third century of service to the faithful of Philadelphia.
What will I be asked to give? How will I be contacted?
While we do not know your unique financial situation, please consider a pledge to the campaign that best complements your past sacrificial giving. A pledge allows you to consider a larger commitment than a one-time gift, and can be paid over three or five years. Every parishioner will be contacted either in person, by phone or by mail.
Why do I need to complete a pledge card? Is an initial payment required?
Each donor is asked to complete a pledge card or commitment card, so that the commitment is appropriately recorded and acknowledged, and so that donors are reminded of subsequent payments on the schedule they request. A pledge is a good faith commitment, but is not binding. If your circumstances change in the future, you can adjust your payment schedule or balance accordingly. An initial payment of 10% is requested, but not required.
How is this campaign different from the Catholic Charities Appeal?
The Catholic Charities Appeal provides necessary annual operating support for agencies, pastoral ministries and education programs throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope will raise money for specific capital and endowment needs that will fortify key programs within the Archdiocese. The Archdiocese will continue to depend on funds raised for current operations through the Catholic Charities Appeal.
How will this impact the weekly offertory at our parish?
In the short term, it is hoped that offertory giving will remain constant. Parishioners are encouraged to make extraordinary, sacrificial pledges, above and beyond regular giving, and embrace a larger sense of stewardship to the Church.
What specific projects will the ‘parish share’ be used for in my parish?
• Brick pointing of the church, school, convent, and rectory buildings, which has not been done in nearly 60 years
• Renovate the kitchen in the school gym/all-purpose room used for parish-wide activities
• Continue tuition abatement
If you have further questions, please call the rectory, and someone will be able to assist you!
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