What is the goal of the Capital Campaign?

The goal of the Arise & Build Capital Campaign is twofold: to raise the funds necessary to complete our campus renovation and expansion, and to encourage 100% parish participation. 

Our original fundraising goal was $7.8M, based on early construction estimates. As the project has progressed, additional improvements, enhancements and requirements have been identified. Therefore, fundraising will continue throughout the project to fully realize our vision for St. John’s. Every dollar contributed to the campaign will be  dedicated exclusively to the Arise & Build project.

What is the expected timeline for the project?

As the project has become more developed, our timeline has been refined. The pre-construction and design phase required additional time due to several important factors, including a change in architects, revisions to the narthex design based on parish feedback, and the detailed planning necessary to produce accurate contractor bids and minimize costly change orders. 

Construction of the Ministry Building is scheduled to begin in Summer 2026, with work on the church expansion beginning in early 2027, although that schedule will ultimately depend on construction progress. Our hope is to return to the expanded sanctuary in ????. Renovation of the Kourmolis Center and the remaining campus  improvements are expected to continue into 2028, with overall project completion targeted for ????. For more details, visit our timeline page.

Will Divine Liturgy continue during construction?

Yes. Liturgy will continue throughout the construction process. 

Before work begins on the church sanctuary, the altar, icons, pews and other liturgical furnishings will be carefully relocated to the Kourmolis Center, which will serve as our temporary sanctuary during construction. 

While the Kourmolis Center is serving as our worship space, it will be reserved exclusively for liturgical services. Parish meetings, ministries, coffee hours, luncheons and other fellowship activities will be relocated to the new Ministry Building. The Zaharias Room will serve as temporary storage for church furnishings and supplies during this period.

Who is invited to support the campaign?

Every parish family is invited to participate according to their ability. We also welcome gifts from alumni, former parishioners, extended family members, friends of St. John’s, and anyone who wishes to help build the future of our parish.

Do I have to make a pledge?

Participation in the campaign is entirely voluntary. However, we hope every parish family will prayerfully consider participating, regardless of the amount. Our goal is 100% participation because every family is an important part of the future of St John’s, and every gift helps bring our shared vision to life.

Is my Arise & Build pledge separate from my annual stewardship commitment?

Yes. Your annual stewardship commitment supports the ongoing ministries and daily operation of our parish, while your Arise & Build pledge is dedicated specifically to the construction project and related campus improvements.

Continued stewardship remains essential throughout the campaign, as it enables St. John’s to worship, serve, educate and minister while construction is underway.

How long do I have to fulfill my pledge and what payment methods are available?

Our goal is for pledges to be fulfilled in full by the end of 2027, aligning with the anticipated construction payment schedule for each phase.

A variety of giving options are available, including one-time gifts and scheduled payments. For more information, please visit our Ways to Give page.

What happens if I am unable to fulfill my pledge?

We understand that life circumstances can change. A pledge is made in good faith and is not a legally binding obligation. If your financial situation changes, simply contact the church office so your pledge can be adjusted accordingly.

Are my contributions tax-deductible?

Yes. St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church is a qualified nonprofit organization, and contributions to the Arise & Build Capital Campaign are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. We encourage you to consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of your gift based on your individual circumstances.

Are naming opportunities available?

Yes. A variety of naming opportunities are available for parishioners who wish to honor or memorialize a loved one while supporting the Arise & Build Capital Campaign.

Naming opportunities provide a lasting way to celebrate a life of faith, express gratitude, or create a legacy that will benefit future generations of our parish. If you are interested, please indicate your interest on your pledge card or contact the church office. Father Stavros will be happy to discuss the available options with you.

Please note that naming opportunities are available on a first-committed basis, and additional opportunities may become available as the project progresses. For more details, please visit our Naming Opportunities page.

What will happen if we exceed our fundraising goal?

We would be truly grateful for such a blessing. Funds raised beyond the campaign goal will be used to complete additional project improvements, enhance the campus, furnish new spaces, and establish reserves for long-term maintenance of our new facilities.