Dear Parishioners,
For generations, the Catholic faithful of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis have built vibrant parishes, formed disciples, educated young people, served those in need, and handed on the gift of faith. We now have the opportunity to continue that legacy.
Archbishop Bernard Hebda has invited all 185 parishes across the Archdiocese to participate in the Lord, Renew Your Church Capital Campaign. A group of parishioners and I recently joined Archbishop Hebda at the campaign launch event, and one thing his team emphasized was that this historic effort is about much more than raising funds—it is about renewing our Church for the future. One phrase from the presentation especially stood out to me: “In this Archdiocese, we want vitality, not just sustainability.” That message resonated with me because it reflects what I desire for Nativity of Mary as well. There is a difference between simply maintaining what we have and preparing with hope and vision for the growth God may have in store.
This campaign is about ensuring that our Catholic faith and the ministries we cherish remain strong, vibrant, and continue to grow for generations to come. The campaign will support several important priorities throughout the Archdiocese, including:
• Strengthening Our Parishes
• Educating Our Children and Young People
• Sustaining the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Basilica of Saint Mary
• Caring for Our Clergy and Future Clergy
• Providing for Those in Need
One unique aspect of this campaign is that our parish will benefit directly. Sixty percent of the funds raised here at Nativity of Mary will return to our parish to support a project we have identified as part of this effort. In the coming weeks, I will share more details about that project and how these funds will help us continue our mission, so stay tuned!
At this point, I simply ask every member of our parish family to keep an open mind and an open heart. When the time comes, I will invite you to learn more about the campaign, pray about its purpose, and consider how God may be inviting you to participate. You will receive additional information from me and from members of our Campaign Volunteer Team, who have generously agreed to help share this important effort with our parish community.
Every gift, offered in faith and generosity, will help strengthen Nativity of Mary and the wider Church throughout the Archdiocese. I look forward to sharing more with you!
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Bill Duffert