News
-2007 Stewardship Campaign Wrap-up
With Gladness and Singleness of Heart
2007 Stewardship Campaign Wrap-up
by Chris Harris, Director of Membership & Development
With the fall pledge campaign now behind us, I want to report some of the good news surrounding the 2007 campaign, With Gladness and Singleness of Heart. As you may have heard at our Annual Meeting in January, the Cathedral faced some unique budget challenges this year. Dean Richardson challenged us at the beginning of the campaign, and as you will see below, we clearly responded.
We ended the campaign with $790,000 in total pledges, from 371 households (representing approximately 550 members) - that's a 13% increase over 2006. Importantly, it continued the trend in growth we have seen over the last several years:
This year the Cathedral was blessed once again with a hard working and dedicated committee headed by David Smith, heartfelt witnesses, reception hosts and dedicated support from our Cathedral staff. Of course, none of this would have mattered without the overriding spirit fun and thanksgiving which permeated the campaign; thanksgiving not only for the community we call St. Paul's, but for all of God's gifts.
Looking behind the numbers, there were a couple of key factors which clearly contributed to our success this year.
166 households increased their pledge an average of 27%
Although the average increase in pledges was 13% overall - which is excellent by itself - if you look at only those households who were able to increase their pledge - 166 in total - the average increase was a remarkable 27%!
First-time pledges increased 25%
Another important factor this year was the growth in new pledges. This year, the Cathedral received 55 pledges from households pledging for the very first time totaling $73,000. This was a $15,000 increase over 2006, representing a 25% increase. (Of course this number will continue to increase this year as new members join the Cathedral.)
Online pledge card a success
Finally, thanks to the continued development of our website and acceptance of online communication, an online pledge card was introduced this year as an idea whose time had come. Intended as a convenience for those unable to attend our in-Gathering service - as well as for newer folks who have joined since the campaign - the online pledge card has so far resulted in 23 online pledges totaling $24,000.
On behalf of the Dean and the Chapter as well as the entire Stewardship Committee who worked so hard on this campaign - we thank you. As I have said before, what a truly joyous and fun campaign it has been. At every stop, we felt the excitement and enthusiasm as we gathered to recall the countless blessings in our lives and many reasons we love the St. Paul's. Our theme this year - "With Gladness and Singleness of Heart" - could not have been more appropriate.
Peace and continued blessings to you all,
Chris Harris Director of Membership & Development
Haven't turned in a 2007 Pledge card yet?
It's never too late to pledge your support of St. Paul's! You can submit your 2007 pledge by clicking here.
For my information and questions about pledging, contact Chris Harris at (619) 298-7261 x334
Urban Collective Update
The Urban Collective is a group for Gen X-ers and Gen Y-ers at St. Paul’s. Past events have included gallery tours, wine tasting, and other cultural events. In addition, our members have met for casual conversation over brunch or at a coffee house.
In March, we gathered for Ray at Night – a popular art walk and gallery tour held the second Saturday of each month in North Park. Prior to the event, we met at Heather Naddour’s place beforehand for pot luck hors d’oeuvres, wine, and socializing.
Our next event will be April 22nd – Earth Day – at which time we will meet after the 10:30 service for a picnic in the park and a screening of An Inconvenient Truth. We also have a “Theology on Tap” series and a Cinco de Mayo celebration in the works. If you are interested in joining us, please drop an email to Chris Harris or (619) 298-7261x334. And we’ll see you at the intersection of life, culture and the Spirit.
People's Warden Report
Musing from the Pews. The Cathedral Chapter met twice this month to get acquainted with new members, renew friendships, reflect on the work of Christ in this holy place the past year, and to map our vision for the coming year.
Chapter retreat took place at Christ the King, Alpine, for the second year. The morning was spent in reflection about the leadership demonstrated in the Old Testament compared to the New Testament. Those reflections led to the work of the day, which was discussion of leadership among all stakeholders in the cathedral. We are very excited about work that has begun on the fractal model which breaks down unwieldy committees into small groups.
Each of you in this parish has the opportunity to become involved at a deeper level in service, spiritual growth, and coming together in this wonderful community of faith.
We were sad to hear that Walt Fegley has retired from Chapter service. His contributions to the physical and spiritual improvements of St. Paul’s are appreciated and we look forward to his continued work in both areas. Martin Nace Hall will step into that position, so welcome, Martin!
May the spirit of the Easter season fill you with Christ’s love,
Kris Hatch
People’s Warden
