At each of the Masses this weekend, I will be introducing the Legacy of Hope, a diocesan capital campaign underway in parishes throughout the Diocese of Worcester. While Partners in Charity is an annual undertaking which addresses the operating costs of diocesan ministries, Legacy of Hope is a one-time effort to bring much needed funds to ministries whose work will be endowed to provide for their strength now and in the future.
Two elements of this campaign are significant for its success. The first is that, while the target for all parishes in greater than that for our more familiar, annual campaign, commitments we each choose to make can be fulfilled over a period of four years. Secondly, it is recognized by Bishop McManus and us who have shared in devising this campaign that parishes have fairly imposing capital needs as well, needs that can strengthen our own ministry as we prepare for the future. This second element translates as a 40% return to St. Peter’s of funds received up to our target. With a parish campaign target of $230,107, that would mean $92,043 for our parish capital projects. Exceeding that target would adjust the equation, realizing a 60% share of funds received beyond the target.
From Bishop McManus’ letter: “The success of this campaign will depend upon your joining us in a commitment to prayer, active involvement in support of this campaign and financial participation. 5 This campaign gives us an opportunity to go beyond our comfort zones to sacrifice I the name of Jesus Christ so as to provide a firm foundation of hope for our local Church. With your enthusiastic support I am confident that we will achieve our goal.” More details to come!