Capital Campaign

PRE-CAMPAIGN STUDY – REPORT SUMMARY

This is a summary report of the pre-campaign study conducted for St. Brendan the Navigator Parish in the Summer of 2026 as preparation for a capital campaign. The results were very positive, allowing us to move forward with the planning stages for a campaign. Below are the findings.


Purpose of the Study:

The study seeks to engage all families of St. Brendan the Navigator Parish. Interviews, focus groups, and a survey are the ways in which feedback and responses were received to: 

  • Determine strengths, weaknesses, and the overall image of the parish.
  • Gauge receptivity of parishioners toward the Statement of Need.
  • Determine philanthropic potential for a capital campaign.
  • Define an approach for fundraising and communicating a capital campaign.
  • Determine strategic issues that may impact the implementation of a capital campaign.
  • Identify prospective volunteer leadership.


Methodology:

  • 203 parish families received a personal invitation to an interview or focus group.
  • A total of 40 families participated in interviews and 23 families participated in the focus groups.
  • All other parishioners were invited to participate in a survey. There were 35 responses.
  • In total, 98 families participated in the study.
  • According to the database provided, approximately 819 families contributed toward the regular offertory in 2025.


Participants:

These are some key findings based on those who participated in the study. 


Perception of the Parish:

Overall, St. Brendan Parish is perceived as a welcoming, vibrant, and prayerful community. The dedicated clergy and leadership are essential to parishioners. Participants, whether year-round or seasonal, perceive the parish as a “community” where all are active and welcomed even during the Winter months.


The graphic to the right uses words partic ipants used to describe St. Brendan the Navigator Parish. Words used more often are displayed larger. 


Statement of Need:

You can find the full list of proposed projects (Statement of Need) in the appendix of the full version of the report. Please scan the QR code at the top of this document to access it. 

  • Overall, parishioners recognize that significant investments in the parish facilities are necessary and generally support addressing deferred maintenance. Respondents consistently emphasized prioritizing essential infrastructure and safety projects while requesting greater clarity regarding project priorities, costs, and the long-term vision for the parish.
  • Highest Priority Projects: Roofs & Structural Repairs, HVAC & Electrical Systems, Safety & Accessibility, Deferred Maintenance.
  • Projects with Mixed Feedback: Sanctuary Renovations, Pews & Kneelers, Organ, Flooring.


Financial Data:

  • 54% of participants see the parish as their “high” or “highest” philanthropic priority.
  • 67% of parishioners said they will consider financially supporting a capital campaign for the proposed projects, in addition to their current contribution to the parish.


Looking Ahead:

  • When asked if they would consider volunteering to support the parish leadership with a capital campaign, 24% of participants said they will or may consider it.
  • A 3-year capital campaign is proposed for the parish.