Diocese launches feasibility study

Winona, MN - The Diocese of Winona is in the midst of a feasibility study to determine the level of support for a diocesan-wide capital campaign.  The study will conclude on July 17 and results will be shared shortly thereafter.

Representatives from the Steier Group, a Catholic development and fundraising firm, are here in the diocese conducting interviews. They are seeking feedback on three proposed needs: priest retirement fund, improvements to Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary and renovations to the diocesan pastoral center.

“We want to hear from as many people as possible so we can gauge their interest in addressing these three urgent needs,” said Joel Hennessy, Director of Mission Advancement for the Diocese.

During the 12-week study, parishioners will have a variety of ways to give their opinions. While some people will be personally interviewed, others will have the option to mail in a survey, go online to answer questions, or attend a focus group.

“More details about how to participate will be coming in late May and early June,” said Hennessy.

Participants will be given a fact sheet that outlines each of the three needs and how the diocese would like to address them. Right now the cost to address all three is estimated between $18 and $20 million.

The information collected during the study is confidential. The results will be used to recommend if the diocese should proceed with a major fundraising effort and what it can expect to accomplish.

“We are very excited about the study and hope people will take the time to give us their opinions,” said Hennessy. “We are one Catholic family and need to make this decision together.”

The Steier Group has directed a number of successful efforts including a $51 million campaign in the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin and a $49 million campaign for the Sioux Falls, S.D. Catholic Schools.