St Francis Embarks Upon Capital Campaign

The parish council of St. Francis of Assisi, the cathedral parish of the American National Catholic Church, has begun a forward-looking capital campaign, to acquire a facility in the communities it serves. The ambitious goal of the capital campaign is $125,000, whereby all funds raised will be earmarked into a restricted fund, whose proceeds can only be used for building and growth projects of the parish. One hundred percent of all funds raised will be dedicated to development of the parish. The campaign, already underway has started to receive an outpouring of support from parishioners and interest within the business community. "Our goal here, says parish council president Kathy Clare, is to place the parish on an upward trajectory and build a future for St. Francis that advances the church to greater success." A larger property, adequate worship space, offices, and social hall with kitchen can be utilized to also enable St Francis to expand its service to the community with a soup kitchen outreach and temporary assistance to the poor and underserved.

"This is in keeping with our mission, that no one be left behind," said bishop George Lucey, FCM. In six years, the community of St. Francis has generously supported charities, clients of Bloomfield Social Services, New Jersey Cares, and the National Federation of the Blind. "We want to extend our reach further, and serve our brothers and sisters in need. During these trying economic times, the need has never been greater, and together, we'll make a difference." said Lucey.

To become more involved, campaign information will be posted on the stfrancisnj.org website. Many opportunities for giving abound, and donation levels are available by pledges of various amounts. You can download the brochure at http://www.stfrancisnj.org/newsletter/treeoflifebrochure.pdf