Why run a capital campaign? Many may be asking themselves why are we doing this? Things seem to be good. Do we really need to change things? The answer is absolutely.

Much like our homes, which might need to be repainted, or have the kitchen renovated, or perhaps it needs a new driveway, our church needs the same. And this isn’t the first time we have done this, which makes complete sense given that we are nearly 175 years old.

In 1925, St. James embarked on its first capital campaign on its 75th anniversary with the goal of more than doubling the church's seating capacity. At the time, the parish was asked to ask themselves “whether newcomers, seeing out crowded church service would not feel that their welcome was lessened?” Merely agreeing that work needed to be done was not sufficient without also backing up the plan by active cooperation and financial aid. We face the same question today: whether newcomers,
seeing our pothole infested, crowded parking lot would not feel that their welcome was lessened?

1925 Expansion Cost - $75,000
Present Cost - $2,350,954

In 1949, St. James embarked on its second capital campaign on the 100th anniversary of the church. Again, the proposed construction was to build the "cloister” which connected the church house and the church. The original design was for eight church school classrooms; additional space for parish organizations; an enlarged choir room, sacristry and “such utilitarian facilities as the kitchen”. Yes, our kitchen is 75 years old.

1949 Expansion Cost - $225,000
Present Cost - $2,933,754

Today we are embarking on another capital campaign, this time to expand our driveway, modernize our heating/ cooling systems, and renovate the kitchen to continue to support our parish and all the good works we do. To that end, do not shy away when approached by a fellow parishioner to meet. This is an exciting and historic time.

Liz McNally talks about why this Capital Campaign is so important to her and her family--and what it's like to receive a visit from a campaign volunteer.

Pledges come in all sizes and shapes. We are so grateful for every pledge, whether it's $5000.00 or $50,000+ (and remember, gifts are typically given over a 3 to 5-year period). Schedule a visit below, and/or with the visitor who reached out to you. Look for our progress every week in this email and see the difference each and every one of us makes to this campaign!

Why am I being visited? Is that really necessary?
Absolutely. The goal of the Capital Campaign is to visit 100% of the member households to inform you about this effort and to answer any questions you may have. It is important that every household participates in this campaign for it to be successful. Everyone counts.

Will I be asked to give a specific amount?
No. You may be asked to consider a gift at a specific level, but this is a personal and thoughtful decision to be made by you and you alone. While the foundation of our campaign is “Sacrificial Giving”, there is no requirement to contribute to the campaign. No one who visits you, nor any members of the vestry or capital campaign will know what you give. Only our staff finance director and Mo. Storm will know what was pledged.

Is this part of my annual pledge?
No. While we are running both campaigns at the same time, there are two separate and distinct campaigns. We need your annual pledge to keep the lights on and the staff paid. The annual pledge is just that, an annual pledge. The capital campaign is a multi-year campaign that you contribute to over a period decided by you. However, both are being discussed during this visit. While they are independent pledges, they are intertwined with the health and future of St. James the Less.

Why do I have to have a visit now?
The period for pledging is from now until May 4, 2024. On May 5th , we will announce the amount pledged towards the capital campaign and determine which projects we will undertake. If we do not raise the full $4MM, lower priority projects will be tabled for another day. In short, without everyone’s commitments, we cannot plan, nor can we determine which projects we can embark on. The sooner members pledge and start contributing, the sooner we can start all these exciting projects.

What should I expect when I am visited?
You can expect a friendly, informal conversation about what St. James means to you and the person visiting you. It is a lovely, personal experience. Everyone who has been visited walks away knowing a little bit more about a fellow parishioner and St. James.

Does it have to be at my home? Can I choose who visits me?
No. You can select any location you please. Some enjoy making it a social occasion and meet at a restaurant. Others meet in the Isom Room. And others have invited the visitors over for wine and cheese. There is no wrong answer. And yes, absolutely you can choose who visits you. This is an important decision, and it is critical that you feel comfortable.

You can schedule your own visit, and even (if you like) select the person, whether Mother Storm or a fellow parishioner, you'd like to have come visit you. Visits are the heart of this campaign--and people often say, the best part! We hope to see you soon.

Choose from a variety of roles, from visiting, to serving on the project team once work begins.