Parish capital campaign brings in notable, and creative, donations

SEA ISLE CITY — Since the spring of 2009, the members of St. Joseph Church in Sea Isle City have supported Connecting in Faith, a capital campaign to raise funds for the construction of a much-needed new worship space.

During recent months, several notable donations have rolled into the campaign office, each of which displayed the true spirit of giving and added to the joy of the Christmas season for parish fund raisers.

In December, representatives from 1st Bank of Sea Isle City presented a check to the church’s pastor, Father Joseph Perreault. That check represented the first payment of a five-year pledge to the building project from the well-established financial institution. “We are very appreciative to the good people at 1st Bank of Sea Isle City for their generosity and commitment to our community,” said the pastor. “We hope that their actions will inspire others to support our endeavor to build a new church here in Sea Isle.”

In November, another special donation was also made to the fund-raising campaign. But instead of cash, this time generosity came in the form of a Key West fishing boat, formerly owned by Brian Conway of Glenside, Pa., and Sea Isle City. According to Dr. Tom Henry, chairperson of the campaign’s Creative Giving Committee, the parish has also received other unique gifts, all of which will help build the new church.

“In addition to the boat donated by Mr. Conway, we have also received several insurance policies and a car,” said Dr. Henry. “Creative giving is a unique and effective means for people to contribute to the capital campaign with non-cash or deferred gifts. In addition to vehicles and insurance policies, these gifts can also include appreciated securities, such as stocks and bonds, real estate, bequests through wills, and the donation of other tangible properties, such as antiques, jewelry and artwork.”

As of Jan. 1, the parish’s capital campaign has received approximately $1.7 million in donations. With an initial goal of $2.25 million, campaign leaders are moving ahead with confidence, all the while looking forward to a ground breaking ceremony on April 18, 2010.

For additional information regarding the Saint Joseph Church Capital Campaign, or to learn more about creative giving options, visit the parish website, www.stjosephsic.org  or phone the parish office at 609- 263-8696.