Fr. Don’s Weekly Letter ~ 6 October 2024

Dear Good People of Saint Bernadette,

Do you remember this project? Well, today I have the happy job of telling you there is news about our new Parish Life Center!

Your generosity has weathered through two phases of a capital campaign, and I thank you for all you have given and continue to give with amounts pledged! As you know, we recently hired a new business manager, Linda Patterson, and her good work has helped us to put together a ten-year financial plan for the parish which was our last hurdle toward moving forward. The financial plan exhibits our ability to build and maintain the new building, keep on top of existing facilities and maintenance, and service any debt that
might arise during the construction process.

We demonstrated that our parish is financially very strong and will well withstand unforeseen fluctuations in the offertory or inflation.

We had already received from the county the special addendum approval for the site plan, which gives us permission to move forward on formal development plans, having considered environmental impact and stormwater management. Now, with the green light from the Diocese, we can commence working with our architect, Michael Foster (MTFA), and begin schematic design drawings so we can make tighter estimates of construction costs and stay within budget. Originally approved by the bishop for $7.6M, this step will help us determine how we proceed with design.

Another interesting fact is that the mora-torium which Bishop placed on capital fundraising in parishes last January 1 has been lifted. If you are new to the parish or did not have an opportunity to participate in the Capital Campaign over the past five years, I ask that you consider making a gift or pledge to the Campaign. There will always be inflation and the need for furnishings and finishes that could always be a little nicer if we have the funds at hand. Our second phase of the Campaign was about 10%, or $300K under goal when we
had to stop: we welcome your generosity.

So when do we get out the golden shovel for groundbreaking? As you know, I tend to be optimistic and would like to say we could start at the beginning of the summer. It would save a lot of confusion if we could get the site set up and major groundwork done when there isn’t a carpool twice a day. We will work that out, even if it seems more likely that we will break ground in the fall.

Some of you were starting to ask us if this
plan was even still in the works. Sometimes hopeful silence is better than postponed promises. But I think we are now at a point
where we can really start getting excited about this new space where our family will be able to grow and develop in ministry and outreach to the wider community beyond the limits of our own registration. Now we can surely imagine new possibilities with the knowledge that they are possible!

We’ll keep you informed as things progress. In the meantime, let’s think of parish activities which might add even more to our financial security as a parish and build up our community.

If you are interested in being involved in our ongoing fundraising, please contact Jean Corday in the parish office.

The Lord be with you,