Faith in Our Future Capital Campaign Brochure

A capital campaign that invests in tomorrow’s Catholic Leaders by enhancing educational and parish facilities while deepening our faith in Jesus Christ.

Letter from the Pastor

Dear Parishoners,

For generations, St. Mary’s Parish & School has served steadfastly the needs of Annapolis in faith and education. In good times and in bad, our faith community has served as a place of hope and of help. Our churches provide a place of belonging and worship where all can encounter the living Christ and the inspiration He brings to their lives. Our Catholic school nourishes the minds, hearts and souls of young people; we have created a community that gives students a sense of Catholic identity centered in faith, tradition and excellence, creating the church leaders of the future.

At the end of 2023, we conducted a feasibility study to gather community members’ input on areas of identified need. We are grateful for the engaged, energetic, and largely positive response not only to the whole community, including our parish, our school, and our leadership, but also to the needs put forward. Our community indicated significant support for these needs that go above and beyond what the parish and the school can accomplish with their standard operating budgets. As a result of the study, we have identified the areas most prioritized by parishioners and school supporters, in addition to perceiving the need for more information about the proposed projects.

We have prayerfully reflected upon the feedback received in the study and feel that a campaign is right for our community at this time. Together, we believe that the items included in the case statement— modified to reflect respondents’ feedback—are necessary and will be well-supported by the members of our community. Simply put, we believe that the funds from this campaign are needed to continue the integrity and success of our institutions.

Throughout the years, you have continually supported the needs and ministries of our faith community. We hope you will be open to this wonderful opportunity for St. Mary’s Parish & School. It is only through the generosity of parishioners like you that we can ensure a future of continued strength for our parish and school.

Thank you in advance for your response. Together, we can further the mission of making our parish and our school places where people experience the love of God and the desire to grow as disciples. May God reward you for your generosity.

In the Redeemer,

Very Reverend. Patrick Woods, C.Ss.R. Pastor

Faith in Our Future: Case Statement

A capital campaign that invests in tomorrow’s Catholic Leaders by enhancing educational and parish facilities while deepening our faith in Jesus Christ.

A Tradition of Faith And Education

St. Mary’s Parish and School has served the spiritual and educational needs of the faithful for generations in the Annapolis area. Both the church and school date back to the 19th century, and today, our parish and school continue to provide places of belonging where people can know, love, and serve Jesus Christ while offering support to those who are most in need in the greater community. Our parish school delivers an exceptional education founded in faith, excellence and tradition, while reaching the minds and hearts of young people and transforming our young Saints into scholars, disciples, and virtuous servant leaders.

History of Parish and School Facilities

Following the construction of the Charles Carroll House that began in 1690, the remaining buildings were built in the following order:

• St. Mary’s Church and Rectory, 1858/1860

• St. Mary’s Primary Building, 1880

• St. Mary’s High School, Marian Hall, Gymnasium and new wing, 1946, 1958, 1984

• St. Mary’s Elementary School Main Building, 1956

• Notre Dame Hall, 1966

• St. Mary’s Elementary Fine Arts Building, 1989

• St. John Neumann Mission Church, 1999

• Team and Ministry House at St. John Neumann, 2017

The Campaign – Faith in Our Future

While St. Mary’s will always honor its tradition and history, it is clearly a parish and school community moving forward into a bright future. The campaign theme – Faith in Our Future – captures the essential character of St. Mary’s, as a community founded in the values and traditions of the Catholic faith and committed to making the world a better place. The slogan Faith in Our Future also expresses our optimism and belief in the continued dynamism of our parish and the perpetuation of the Catholic faith in Annapolis. The investment in St. Mary’s Parish and School and the vital role that the School plays in sustaining our Parish is crucial to the continued vibrancy and service of the Catholic Church in our community. A strong Catholic identity is at the heart of our School’s reputation, and faith will remain central to the future of our school, its faculty and staff, and most importantly, to its students, now and throughout their adult lives.

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Case Statement Continued

Within the context of our history, present situation, and future aspirations, the St. Mary’s capital campaign, Faith in Our Future, is focused on engaging our community and raising funds for the following needs:

Proposed Capital Projects

High School Science Wing Renovation –Estimated Cost: $1.8 Million

Typical Classroom Interior

In order to inspire its students through science education and the expansion of our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) curriculum, the High School proposes a renovation to its science wing located in C-Hall. The growth of STEAM in 21st-century education requires continual investment in lab spaces, technology, specialized equipment, and safety measures. This renovation has been under consideration and design for several years and will add new innovative laboratories and enlarge and update all-purpose science classroom spaces, ensuring that St. Mary’s remains competitive and prepares our students for future academic and career opportunities.

2nd Floor Classroom Renovation

Notre Dame Hall 2nd Floor Renovation –Estimated Cost: $1 Million

Additional classroom space is a high priority for the Elementary and High Schools. Through rigorous evaluation of existing learning spaces, the master planning committee has committed to renovating the second floor of Notre Dame Hall to create a math wing of four new classrooms and to update the second floor’s learning space, technology, temperature controls, air handling and restroom facilities. By creating a fresh new space and a sound infrastructure for mathematical learning that can be used by Middle School and High School students, this project helps reduce class sizes and ensures that St. Mary’s will continue to foster excellence in STEAM learning.

Campus Architectural Redesign, Phase One – Estimated

Cost: $800,000

To address disparate construction styles and building ages across campus, exterior architectural renovations are planned in order to improve St. Mary’s appearance and to unify it with our historic setting in Annapolis. This long-range project includes multiple phases to improve and to beautify exterior elements of the Church grounds, the Elementary School, and the High School. Phase One will address the entrance

to campus and walkway from Duke of Gloucester Street between the High School and the Church in order to increase pedestrian safety for day and evening events and to achieve a more unified aesthetic look for the High School, and to include improving lighting along this area and better separating vehicle and pedestrian traffic while creating outdoor areas for student use and improving parishioners’ access as they attend Mass. This project will also expand handicapped accessibility and more clearly identify the main entrance to the High School.

Named Classroom Enhancement Program – Estimated Cost: $900,000

From the construction of the first St. Mary’s classrooms in 1862 to parishioners and parents volunteering to lay bricks so that the new High School building could open in time for the start of school in 1946, our community has been dedicated to improving the space for learning on our campus. In the 21st century, the academic, environmental, technological, and safety requirements for classrooms compel us to hold our facilities to the highest standard. To that end, the goal has been set to renovate 100% of the high school and middle school classroom spaces in the next five years. In addition to new science and math wings, existing classrooms in the High School and Main Elementary School buildings will require considerable renovations. After exhaustive survey work by architects and our master planning committee over the past two years, it was determined that significant improvements (ceilings, lighting, flooring, cabinetry, security and technology) are needed to each of the nearly 30 classrooms in these spaces to ensure the highest standard of learning environment for our students and faculty. There will be multiple opportunities for families to adopt a classroom, fund its renovation and name the classroom in honor of a Catholic saint and their family name.

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Architectural Redesign

Redesigned Math Wing

Redesigned Entryway

Case Statement

1862 Society Opportunity Fund – Estimated Initial Goal: $3.5 Million

Property Acquisition Fund

1862 signifies the opening of St. Mary’s School. One of the most distinctive features is its spectacular location along Spa Creek in Historic Annapolis. This gift comes with its challenges, however, particularly in the way it limits growth and expansion. The goal of acquiring property to permit further development of programs and to serve the current parish and school population requires considerable planning and funding. One significant segment of the new 1862 Society Opportunity Fund is to provide financial support for feasibility studies and property acquisition and to allow for major, new initiatives in parish activities, academics, athletics, and the arts.

Transportation Fund

The acquisition of vehicles and funding for transportation is a necessary and challenging element of St. Mary’s School. The generosity of a benefactor at the end of 2023 will enable the School to purchase two fullsize school buses to move our students between St. John Neumann and the downtown St. Mary’s campus. This will create opportunities for high school juniors to have campus parking by the Team House and Pascal Field, and provide athletes with transportation to practices and home games. This should also reduce parking lot congestion and access for parents, parishioners, and visitors to the Lower Lot by St. Mary’s Church, the Carroll House and Gardens, and the High School.

Endowment for Named Scholarships (in honor of St. Mary’s families, Redemptorist clergy, School Sisters of Notre Dame, coaches or faculty/staff members)

St. Mary’s has committed to increasing its scholarship funding for students by 300% in the next few years, in the areas of academic excellence, talent (athletic, artistic, leadership, service), and socio-economic diversity. This commitment is fueled by the fiscal stability of the Parish as well as the increasing generosity of benefactors in establishing endowed scholarships. These named scholarships usually require a minimum contribution of a $100,000 pledge over five years. Such endowments ensure that these funds will be available in perpetuity to support present and future recipients, providing the outstanding spiritual and academic formation that St. Mary’s offers.

Endowment for Named Faculty Positions (in honor of St. Mary’s families, Redemptorist clergy, School Sisters of Notre Dame, coaches or faculty/staff members)

Throughout the 161-year history of St. Mary’s School, the foundation of its reputation for excellence has been its people. The Redemptorist Fathers, the School Sisters of Notre Dame, and the lay faculty, staff and coaches have made an immeasurable impact on generations of young Saints. To ensure the continued high caliber of our award-winning faculty and staff, donor support for endowed named faculty positions is proposed as part of the 1862 Society Opportunity Fund. These funds may be established as single-donation commitments or ongoing funds that continue to accept contributions and grow.

Campaign Goal: $7.5 to $8 Million

“At the time, my daughter was a mid-year semester transfer for her sophomore year. I thought it would be really tough mid-year. She is a senior this year at St. Mary’s, and we know it was the best decision we have ever made! The teachers at St. Mary’s were wonderful with her…. I couldn’t have asked for a better transition!”

“The best part of St. Mary’s is the sense of a faith-filled community. The willingness of all teachers, administrators, and other students to always help out and give support and prayer makes me feel cared for and loved. Starting classes with prayer and the ability to attend Mass and Confession have helped me grow in my relationship with God.”

“St. Mary’s prepared me by challenging me in both the classroom and on the field. We were constantly pushed to excel in both environments, helping me develop timemanagement skills and a strong work ethic. I was also surrounded by the best teachers, mentors, and coaches who pushed me to be the best version of myself as a student, athlete, and person.”

Sacrificial Giving Opportunities and Gift Recognition

In an effort to recognize the families and individuals who make a sacrifice to our Faith in Our Future campaign, we will create and install a gift recognition plaque. As an important reminder, this campaign is based on equal sacrifice, not equal giving. In keeping with our ongoing stewardship principles, we lovingly challenge ourselves to give generously in the hope of reaching one of the specific Sacrificial Giving Levels listed below.

Foundational Gifts

For those families or individuals who wish to make a gift to the campaign of $250,000 – $1,000,000 or more, your names will be gratefully displayed as benefactors to our Faith in Our Future campaign.

Pillar Gifts

For those families or individuals who wish to make a gift to the campaign of $150,000-$249,000 more, your names will be gratefully displayed as benefactors to our Faith in Our Future campaign.

Leadership Gifts

For those families or individuals who wish to make a gift to the campaign of $100,000-$149,999, your names will be gratefully displayed as benefactors to our Faith in Our Future campaign.

Benefactor Gifts

For those families or individuals who wish to make a gift to the campaign of $50,000-$99,999, your names will be gratefully displayed as benefactors to our Faith in Our Future campaign.

Supporter Gifts

For those families or individuals who wish to make a gift to the campaign of $25,000-$49,999, your names will be gratefully displayed as benefactors to our Faith in Our Future campaign.

Patron Gifts

For those families or individuals who wish to make a gift to the campaign of $10,000-$24,999, your names will be gratefully displayed as benefactors to our Faith in Our Future campaign.

Sponsor Gifts

For those families or individuals who wish to make a gift to the campaign of $5,000-$9,999, your names will be gratefully displayed as benefactors to our Faith in Our Future campaign.

Names will be listed in alphabetical order. Gifts may also be listed in honor or in memorial of someone. The recognition area will be created after funds have been received. All payments can be made over a five-year period. If you do not want your name included in recognition, please indicate anonymous on your pledge card.

St. Mary’s Memorial Gift Opportunities

St. Mary’s Parish and School will thank every parishioner whose personal sacrifices have helped build up God’s Kingdom in our parish community. Many parishioners may choose to use public recognition to thank someone whose sacrifices have been a blessing in their own lives. The following features of our school may be memorialized in honor of a loved one and will be gratefully acknowledged on a plaque. Memorial gifts are made on a first-come, first-served basis, and the quantity of each is limited. If any of these opportunities appeal to you, contact the parish office immediately so we can reserve them.

Science Wing Floor Plan

High School Science Wing $1,200,000

Taken!

High School Science Wing Classrooms (6) $75,000

High School Renovated Classrooms (20) $50,000

High School Renovated Faculty Room $50,000

Notre Dame Hall Math Wing $500,000

Notre Dame Hall Admissions Suite $100,000

Notre Dame Hall New Math Classrooms (4) $75,000

Elementary School Renovated Classrooms (9) $50,000

Benches as Landscape Features (5) $25,000

Math Wing Floor Plan

**Price points above reflect the privilege of memorializing such prominent features in our school. These leadership gifts help to fund less glamorous but equally vital construction costs. The subscription of each memorial is set by its privilege of designation, not its actual cost.

Suggested Giving Plans

Our Family of Faith Looks to the Future

As members of St. Mary’s Parish & School, we are faced with a challenge that we can only overcome together. Investing in tomorrow’s Catholic Leaders by enhancing educational and parish facilities is important to each and every member of St. Mary’s family. It is only by our generosity in making sacrificial gifts that we will be able to accomplish our objectives.

We have established a minimum goal of $7.5 to 8 Million.

While this seems like a large amount, participation by all members of the parish and St. Mary’s School parents from other faith communities will make this goal not only attainable but surpassable.

Suggested Giving Plans

In order to assist you as you consider making a pledge to this campaign, we have provided some suggested giving plans. We understand that each individual or family has different financial obligations and abilities. Even so, one of these plans should fit within the means of each member of the parish family. Please consider which plan best fits your monthly budget. This may be the best guideline for your commitment. Remember, this campaign is based on equal sacrifice – not equal giving. If each family makes a truly sacrificial gift, we will reach and exceed our goal together.

Your Commitment

Giving Plans to Consider

We are asking each household in our parish family to consider a minimum pledge of $5,000 to be paid over the next 60 months. This pledge would be a sacrifice of $75 per month – a little more than $2 a day - to build a promising future for St. Mary’s Parish & School. Such a gift should not pose a burden for most parishioners. We ask that you prayerfully consider the amount to which you can commit.

Please Consider a Special Commitment

Some of us have been especially blessed by the Lord with material means. A heartfelt appeal is made to those parishioners and St. Mary’s School parents from other faith communities to reflect on their ability to make a very generous pledge to the campaign. We ask those capable of making pledges of $20,000, $50,000, $100,000, or more to lay the foundation of success for this campaign.

Please Consider…

• Your pledge payments are made over a five-year (60-month) period.

• Your commitment to St. Mary’s Faith in Our Future campaign is in addition to your weekly contribution.

• Your financial contribution to this campaign will help ensure a strong future for our parish and school.

• Beginning in December 2024, payment reminders and envelopes will be mailed according to your payment preference.

Planned Giving, Wills, Estate Planning, Life Insurance

There are numerous planned giving opportunities that provide donors with alternative methods of making their gifts to the campaign. These include but are not restricted to:

• Gifts of assets including real estate, stocks, bonds, coins, etc.

• Making St. Mary’s Parish & School a beneficiary of your will

• Naming St. Mary’s Parish & School as a beneficiary of your life insurance policy

Matching Gift Opportunities

Many employers have matching gift programs that allow employees to multiply their gifts to educational institutions, social organizations, and charitable institutions. We encourage you to enquire with your Human Resources Department regarding the Matching Gift Opportunities available to you.

Tax Advantages of Thoughtful Giving

• All annual contributions to our campaign are tax-deductible for those who itemize their deductions.

• In December 2015, Congress passed legislation making the IRA Charitable Rollover permanent. If you have an IRA and are aged 70½ or older, you may opt to make a charitable contribution from your qualified IRA plan. When you do so, you may transfer up to $105,000 per year to St. Mary’s Parish. As a charitable gift, this distribution needs to be transferred directly from your IRA to the Parish. Therefore, it would not be taxed as income. If you receive the distribution first, it will be taxed like any other distribution. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD), your charitable contribution can satisfy all or part of the amount of your required minimum distribution from your IRA.

**The SECURE Act made significant changes to the RMD rules. The prior rule applies to plan participants and IRA owners who reach the age of 70 ½ in 2019, and the first RMD must start by April 1, 2020. For plan participants and IRA owners who reach age 70 ½ in 2020, the first RMD must start by April 1 of the year after the plan participant or IRA owner reaches 72.

• You can give appreciated stock to the campaign. If you’ve held it for more than one year, you may take a charitable tax deduction for the stock’s current market value, and neither you nor the parish must pay capitalgains taxes when the stock is sold. The combination can result in a larger deduction (and more tax savings) for you and a greater gift for the campaign than if you sell the stock, pay the taxes, and donate the net proceeds.

Procedure to Transfer Stock

For details, please instruct your stockbroker or securities advisor to contact:

Margaret Jackson, RBC Wealth Management

1906 Towne Center Blvd Suite 375, Annapolis, MD 21401

Phone 410-573-6719 Fax 410-573-6701

St. Mary’s Church Account: #303-85233

DTC Routing Number: #0235.

501 c 3 Federal Tax ID: #52-0591449

Please indicate on your pledge card the number of shares and the name of the company (ticker).

Pledging

• You may be contacted by a volunteer to make your pledge.

• You may pick up a pledge card in church on certain Sundays throughout the months of April and May.

• You may drop off your completed pledge card at the parish office.

• You may also contact the parish office at 410-990-4023.

St. Mary’s Parish & School Capital Campaign Prayer

What shall I return to the LORD for all his goodness to me?

Psalm 116:12

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gifts of our lives and all the blessings you have given us. We seek through your grace in the name of Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit to respond in love and compassion to all you have given us.

We treasure our faith and our parish community here at Saint Mary’s that strengthens and guides us. We are ever grateful for the generations of Saint Mary’s parishioners who have gone before us and left us such a strong foundation of faith in our beautiful churches and our school that seeks to create young people of faith.

We pray for the grace to be good stewards of what we have received as we plan for the future of our parish. We ask your blessing upon our capital campaign through the intercession of our patron Mary the Mother of God, Saint John Neumann, Blessed Francis Seelos and all our saints now in eternal life. Amen.