You did it! Thank you!

We have reached our initial capital campaign goal $1,750,000. That is one half of the total funds needed for the new pastoral center on the Emmaus campus and the Chapel Life & Retreat Center at Queen of Angels chapel. This is the amount needed to proceed with hiring an architect and a contractor. We will move on that, in consultation with the diocese, after the first of the year. 

The past three days since I sent out my $1,000 challenge have been amazing. So many responded that the parish administrative staff was kept very busy processing donations. I am very pleased that participation in the capital campaign rose from 385 families to 451. That is from 15% of registered households to 18%. 

Another really imperative aspect of the last three days was that we received contributions of all sizes. This is so important because, when a lot of people share to the extent that they can, wonderful things can happen. No contribution is too small. Every contribution makes a difference.

Now that we have reached the goal that allows us to actually move forward with plans, we will continue to encourage contributions. The total projected cost for the projects is $3,500.000. By the way, as long as I am pastor, that is the upper limit. If we can do it for less we will. It is important to me and to many of you as well, that we incur as little new debt as possible. So from this point on you will hear me talking about that.

Your generosity and commitment to the building up of this faith community is what has always made Emmaus an amazing parish. That continues!