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Readiness Assessment Final Report – Our Saviour’s Lutheran, Naperville, IL

James D. Klote & Associates, Inc. 1

Our Mission

Knowing Jesus and Making Jesus Known

STUDY METHOD PURPOSE: The purpose of the Debt Retirement Information meetings was to present to Our Saviour’s members the proposed campaign plan for debt elimination. After presenting this proposed plan during numerous focus group meetings, feedback was carefully collected on written questionnaires, verbal questions and comments during the meetings, as well as personal conversation. This data will help gain participant’s perspective to this need and the relative priority of this need, and will gage the level of support of a potential capital campaign for funding the plan.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT: Excellent preliminary work was instrumental in helping the study process move forward efficiently and effectively. Thank you to staff members Lynda DeVore and Jim Panosh, in particular, for gathering together the necessary information and people to conduct the study. Thanks also to the Finance department including Barbara Rutherford, Jennifer Sevatson, and Sue Litwicki for collecting the financial data for the presentation. Special thanks to all of our presenters including Steve Robinson, Lane Lewis, Don Swanson, Lee Selander, Peter Harvey, Greg Nasman, Julie Michael, John Endrud, and Barbara Rutherford.

DEBT RETIREMENT INFORMATION MEETINGS: The study scheduled a series of twenty-one (21) Sunday and weekday informative Debt Retirement Information meetings involving as many members and friends of Our Saviour’s as possible. All members of the congregation were personally and publicly invited to attend the Debt Retirement Information meetings. Invitations consisted of verbal announcements on Sunday morning as well as in the bulletins, monthly and weekly newsletters, email blasts, prominent displays on the screens and other signage in the narthex as well as the web-site, the church Facebook page, targeted emails from various ministry leaders and some personal invitations. Meeting dates and times were selected to provide the entire congregation an opportunity to attend and offer their input in response to the proposed plan (Please see Appendix A). Nine (9) Debt Retirement Information meetings were held following morning services on Sundays beginning January 27th through February 24th. Seven (7) were conducted on the main campus, while two were conducted on the Celebration! campus. One (1) meeting followed the Saturday worship service on February 9th and one (1) followed the noon Ash Wednesday service on February 13th. In addition, Eight (8) meetings were scheduled on various weekday evenings between January 30th and February 21st. Finally, two (2) groups were scheduled around existing activities – the senior luncheon on February 4th, and the men’s breakfast on February 9th.



Each Debt Retirement Information meeting was conducted in a uniform manner with an opening prayer and a common agenda. The presentation included a brief summary of the history of Our Saviour’s followed by a summary of the current financial situation at Our Saviour's as it concerns the debt and the proposed solution of a debt elimination campaign. A PowerPoint presentation with appropriate pictures, graphs and data comprised the primary visual presentation material (Appendix G). Questionnaires were distributed at the beginning of the Questions and Comments session (Appendix B). Most attendees submitted their questionnaires immediately following the presentation, while a few insisted on taking them home and returning them later. Unfortunately, as is usually the case, only a small percentage of these questionnaires were returned. There were a total of 151 questionnaires completed and returned by the conclusion of this report. During each meeting Questions and Comments from the audience were also recorded. They are listed in a later section of this report (Appendix F). Responses to the Questionnaire are also included in this report under the Responses to Debt Retirement Information Questionnaires section (Appendix E). Utilizing this information, we have sought to objectively appraise the responses to identify patterns and sentiments that could influence the accomplishment of the proposed plan for a debt elimination campaign at Our Saviour’s.

ATTENDANCE: The participation by church members in the Debt Retirement Information meetings started slow but gained interest as the study went on. Total attendance was 216 which represented a reasonable sample size, comprising a cross-section of the church’s membership (Appendix C).

Prerequisites for Campaign Success

The directors of James D. Klote & Associates, Inc. have provided counsel and direction to hundreds of campaigns for a wide variety of causes. This experience indicates successful campaigns are most often the result of the following factors:

1) Proper Timing -- Campaigns require time and effort. The fewer distractions occurring during the campaign period the better the results will be. During a capital campaign, individuals must place a relatively high priority and remain focused on the tasks they have been given to help reach the goal within a specified time period.

2) Appealing Case – The client must make a strong “case” or rationale for conducting the

campaign at a particular time. The case must be clearly defined and well documented. It must be visionary and meet far-ranging, long-term needs. Furthermore, it must speak to the needs and opportunities perceived as being most important by the church.

3) Influential Leadership -- There must be access to the top staff and lay leaders who are

willing to provide their influence, time and resources to support a campaign. Ideally, a core of these individuals must remain heavily involved with campaign organization and implementation. There is no substitute for active leadership to ensure the success of a capital campaign. A true “team effort” must be evident, with members drawing upon the



support and skills of each other. Campaign leaders must be firm yet sensitive, demanding yet understanding. They must also respect the judgment of the campaign consultant and be willing to accept the consultant’s counsel in order to facilitate a successful campaign.

4) Constituency With Adequate Resources -- There must be adequate financial potential within a sufficiently large constituency to meet the needs identified for the campaign. In addition, experience has shown that the following pattern of gifts is sought to increase the chances for success:

$750,000 Lead Gift 11% of Goal $2,750,000 Top 15% of Gifts 40-50% of Goal $3,500,000 Remaining Gifts 40-50% of Goal

This is not a magic or exact formula, but our experience with hundreds of successful campaigns confirms the value of seeking to establish a giving pattern of this nature.

Addressing the Prerequisites for Success

# 1 Proper Timing?

Of the 216 who attended Debt Retirement Information meetings, there were 151 who completed questionnaires; of which thirty-two (32) individuals, or twenty-one percent (21%), indicated that they would volunteer time to the campaign (Appendix D). An additional fifty-two (52) individuals, or thirty-five percent (34%) of the respondents, indicated a desire for more information before answering the question. Thirty-one (31) individuals, or twenty-one (21%) of the respondents, didn’t answer the question. Thirty-five (35) respondents, or twenty-three percent (23%) of the total responding, indicated that they would not volunteer time in support of the campaign. These statistics as a group are a bit soft, but still indicate a positive indication of commitment within the core membership. Beyond the group that indicated “yes” is also a sizeable group that marked “need more information.” Our experience has been that “need more information” generally means that the individual is receptive to volunteering but wants to know more about what is required before saying “yes.” When the subject of an every member canvass was addressed, the response was overwhelmingly positive and seen as necessary for the overall success of this campaign. There appears to be a strong core group of volunteers committed to this cause from which to build an adequate team for the every member visit. However, it will also be important for the Council to set a positive example by their own volunteer involvement and commitment. Overall, based upon direct comments on questionnaires and during Debt Retirement Information meetings, the strong consensus was that the need to make debt retirement a priority for the next campaign was both appropriate and necessary (Appendix E & F). There is also a definite sense of “donor fatigue” among some of the longer term members/donors that makes a debt elimination campaign particularly attractive. In short, there is almost no disagreement that the current debt is a burden and that the next campaign should focus on debt retirement only. This core need was identified by the participants as both necessary and urgent.



The other issue of timing is in regard to Pastor Grevlos’ departure as Senior Pastor. The question was asked at several meetings regarding the timing of this campaign in light of the pastoral vacancy. Most members seemed satisfied with the plan to move forward with a campaign once the issue was discussed. Participants concluded that something must be done relatively soon with or without Pastor Tom, and that this might be an opportunity to put the OSLC house “in order” in preparation for a new senior pastor. The fact that this issue didn’t come up at all in the majority of the meetings and the relative comfort expressed after discussion by those who did bring it up indicates that strong lay leadership will be sufficient to move the congregation confidently forward with a debt elimination campaign. As one participant commented, “I think this is a chance for a new beginning. This is a challenge we need to meet.” Show strength and confidence and the congregation will follow. It is worthwhile to consider the alternative(s) to conducting the campaign now if the presenting reason for delay is to allow a new Senior Pastor to arrive first. Beyond the obvious issue of actively calling a minister to a church with $6.5 million in debt and no long term plan to pay for it, there are also some logistical concerns. Since the only revenue stream OSLC has to continue paying the mortgage is funds from the capital campaign, it would be necessary to temporarily identify another $500,000 per year revenue stream to make the minimum mortgage payment ($42,000) or $564,000 to continue making the current accelerated payment of $47,000. This would most likely be accomplished by asking current myChurch donors to extend their existing pledge for another 6 months to a year. However, based on myChurch revenue, OSLC would need about an 80% compliance rate for sufficient revenue to cover the minimum payment. Because such a high compliance rate is needed, a “mini-campaign” of some sort would need to be conducted now in order to secure funding for the July mortgage payment. Simply sending out a letter will not be enough to obtain 80% compliance.

There are four major concerns from a fundraising perspective regarding this type of delay.

1) It would require that OSLC conduct, essentially, two campaigns over the next year.

One mini-campaign now to secure an 80% compliance from myChurch, and then the “real” campaign sometime later. This would result in an obvious duplication of effort and very real potential of “burn-out” from donors who already admit a sense of donor fatigue. It would also present an unfocused and confusing message to the congregation. But more critical is the issue of asking a donor for the same thing, twice. Ideally, you want one ask. The danger in asking for a continuation of myChurch is that donors will have, once again, locked in on a number. Donors have not made a campaign decision for three years. Performance needs to change significantly in this campaign. “Normal” needs to be re-defined. But once a donor makes a financial decision it is very hard to get them to move from that decision. Asking donors to extend myChurch will, effectively, have them lock in on an old number and will make it that much harder to convince them to change.

2) Realistically, it may be a year before OSLC receives a new Senior Pastor and it may take another year for him/her to get a feel for the congregation and its members to the point where his/her presence makes a significant influence on a donor. Now, a 6 month delay has become a two year delay.



3) Every month OSLC waits to conduct a campaign and pay off the debt is a decision

that costs $30,000 (the monthly cost of interest on the loan). A 6 month delay is a $180,000 decision. A 12 month delay is a $360,000 decision.

4) The vast majority of participants saw no reason to wait. They are ready to move

now. In fact, some influential and generous current donors have expressed no patience for putting this off and paying unnecessary interest. Waiting would only show that OSLC hasn’t really listened to what the congregation was saying in these focus groups.

The only other alternative offered during the Debt Retirement Meetings was selling the Celebration! campus and stopping all ministry there entirely, or selling the building to an investor and leasing the space back. Neither idea seemed to have much traction in the meetings where it was asked and seemed to have no interest at all among the leadership of OSLC.

# 2 Appealing Case?

When presented with the facts of the current debt payments including how much is included in interest charges there was near unanimous agreement that something significant needs to be done to pay off the current $6.5 million debt. Although some participants wondered whether it was really possible or may have questions about the length or the nature of the campaign, almost no one disagreed with the idea of a major campaign to pay off the debt. Many commented that they were pleased that an every member canvas was part of the plan. This type of near monolithic agreement is almost never seen with a building campaign and sometimes not even with a debt campaign. It is a sentiment to capitalize on and leverage. In addition, it is clear that members saw this type of campaign as a means to an end, not an end in itself which can sometimes be the case. Participants noted that the single greatest benefit to Our Saviour's of focusing on the debt now will be that the church can complete more mission and ministry in the future. It is clear that the mission statement of Our Saviour's is both well-known and believed. You have done a good job of communicating this mission. As a way of illustrating the mission drive of Our Saviour's I took every response from the first three questions on the questionnaire and formed a wordle (shown below). A wordle is simply a way of visually depicting the content of a text based on word usage and frequency. The more a word is used the larger and more prominent it appears in the wordle.



Notice that although the words “debt”, “interest”, and “money” are prominent, they are not THE most prominent words and thoughts from these responses. Please take note of the central location and relative size of words like “mission”, “ministry”, and “missions.” Participants in these group meetings clearly “get” the mission of Our Saviour's and are hungry to do even more. But they also clearly see that the current financial obligation for debt service is a major obstacle and must be overcome first. Three dynamics should be addressed as the campaign unfolds. 1) Trust and transparency. There is a strong desire among those surveyed for a

greater degree of transparency with this campaign. It is clear that there have been misunderstandings regarding the use of funds from previous campaigns, with some participants even sharing that they weren’t exactly sure what they were pledging for in the myChurch campaign. Clarity of purpose will be critical. In reviewing previous campaign literature it is apparent that the uses of funds were clearly articulated in the campaign materials. What appears to have happened, however, is that after previous campaigns fell short of the goal there was not enough clear communication of what, exactly, will be done now that lesser funds will be collected – a Plan B. It is also clear that communication regarding financial progress on the debt is not being received by the vast majority of the congregation. By that I mean that communication may, in fact, be sent, but it is not being heard or comprehended by the vast majority of members. Some highly involved individuals



used the word “shocked” when they learned how much debt OSLC still held from the 2004 project. It will be vital to the success of this campaign to ensure 1) That funds are used ONLY for the purposes clearly articulated in the campaign message and 2) That regular and clear communication continues throughout the entire 3 to 5 year pledge period regarding the progress being made on the debt elimination goal. Given that the congregation is in near full agreement that proceeds from this campaign should ONLY be used for debt elimination purposes and there are no other competing projects this should be relatively easy to accomplish. The issue of “trust” should also continue to be addressed. The desire for trust and/or transparency was brought up during every single one of the meetings, either during the question and answer section and/or from the questionnaires collected from that meeting. This is a very strong response considering that the question was not asked on the questionnaire, nor was it part of tthe presentation. Participants chose to bring it up or identify it themselves. It was clear that the Debt Retirement Information meetings themselves became trust building exercises. The open and truthful sharing of financials, the presence of council members at all meetings, and the patient listening and answering that took place during the Q and A portion were all very positive steps in the direction of building a higher degree of trust between congregational members and their leadership. Now it is time to act on what has been shared. Launching and completing an open, well communicated, completely transparent, debt elimination capital campaign will allow this trust building to continue and grow exponentially. It is a transformational opportunity. (See recommendation #4 on page 14 for an additional recommendation on furthering this goal)

2) Continue to calm any lingering anxiety about Pastor Tom’s departure.

3) Messaging for the campaign should seek to incorporate the emotions and commitments to mission that are prevalent at OSLC. There can be a tendency during debt retirement campaigns to see the effort as an obligation or burden – a necessary evil in order to get where we’re going. Many of the comments from the questionnaires spoke in these terms. However, this does not need to be the case at OSLC. Not only is there an opportunity to direct the heart toward the future possibilities of an Our Saviour’s church set free from debt, there is an even greater opportunity to tie mission directly to this effort by, once again, committing to the purposes for which the Celebration! campus was built. Celebration! was built as a front-porch ministry. It is the place where a great deal of OSLC’s mission work takes place, from PADS, to the Clinic, to Youth activities, to the 10 AM non-traditional worship service, to the Children’s Center, etc… These are all active, vital mission efforts of OSLC that have room for growth. Its stories need to be told. However, without Celebration! most of these ministries would not take place. Would members see donating money to an African congregation to build a church as mission? Absolutely! In the same way, the building of Celebration! was necessary for much of the mission work OSLC accomplishes. This campaign can also be about funding and furthering that mission as much as the initial campaign in 2003 was about funding the beginning of that mission.



# 3 Influential Leadership?

Many people have already shown their leadership and willingness to help support a capital campaign. Indeed, very strong, capable and influential members of the church are engaged and are revealing a relatively confident spirit and commitment to the success of the proposed campaign. Further, forty-six (46) members were identified by questionnaire respondents as being leaders who should be enlisted for leadership roles in the proposed campaign. Those already engaged in leadership roles are obviously on that list. It is evident from the feedback received from many of these individuals that there is an underlying assumption that the process will go forward. It appears there would be a tremendous lack of fulfillment if the proposed debt elimination campaign were not undertaken. In numerical terms, most of these would likely participate in a specific role that met their individual preferences. These results point to an adequate number of dedicated, committed members who are willing to give of their time, talents, resources, and influence. In addition, all of the pastoral staff has pledged their willingness to assist in whatever way necessary in order to make this campaign a success. In light of this, it can be assumed there will be a sufficient number of volunteers to begin and sustain the campaign recruitment process.

# 4 Adequate Resources?

Whether or not Our Saviour’s has the ability to meet the funding of the identified debt retirement needs is a question facing all of us. Given our experience and the church’s present level of stewardship and apparent commitment, meeting the challenge is more than possible. It will, however, require acts of significant and inspirational giving by the members. Those families with above-average ability to give will be instrumental in setting the stage for reaching and perhaps surpassing any challenging campaign goal. The success of an appeal will require inspirational financial support from all members of the church.

Campaigns traditionally follow a formula that is skewed toward obtaining “lead” gifts from those most blessed with the ability to give. As our Lord clearly states: From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked (Luke 12:48b). Our Saviour’s is not an exception to this pattern. It must be noted that this does not in the least detract from the shared importance of the vast majority who will provide less than “lead” gifts. The advantage of being able to test the goal during the early phase, or “Advance Gifts” Phase, of a campaign will help the Campaign Steering Committee in evaluating what James D. Klote & Associates believes to be a realistic fund-raising goal. In other words, the goal can be evaluated in light of the results of early solicitation.

It is significant to note that with brief discussion of the estimated costs; eighty-nine (89), or fifty-nine percent (59%), indicated that this is a campaign they would support financially. There were thirty-four (34) others, an additional twenty-three percent (23%), who needed more information before supporting financially. Additionally, twenty-three (23) respondents, or fifteen percent (15%), did not respond to the question of financial support. Only four (4), or three percent (3%), indicated they would not support the campaign financially. Three of those four indicated on their questionnaire that it was for family financial reasons. The fourth gave no reason but the remainder of the questionnaire was very positive toward the concept of a debt eliminate campaign.



I believe the relatively high number of those who left the question blank or replied “need more information” is related to the trust and transparency issues discussed earlier. A relatively simple solution to this dynamic is outlined on the recommendations page (page 14, #4). In addition it has been our experience that “need more information” almost always results in a pledge once the donor receives the information they’re looking for. James D. Klote & Associates does not ask focus group participants to indicate an amount they are willing to give at this point in the process. It’s too early. The “ask” will come during that donor’s personal visit and will be based on the scale of gifts and a review of donor capacity from the donor review process. Based on current giving to the annual operating budget, OSLC should be able to reach our benchmark of 3X to 4X annual giving for a debt retirement campaign. However, adhering to the plan of campaign will be vital to securing these results. Additionally, a strong advance phase prior to kickoff will be necessary in order to encourage the congregation to re-define what is “normal” for OSLC campaigns and encourage a reconsideration of previous commitments. Following is a Scale of Gifts for OSLC based on a total need of $7 million.



Amount # of Gifts

# of

Prospects To Raise

Accumulative

Total $ % of Total

$750,000 1 2 $750,000 $750,000 11%

$500,000 1 2 $500,000 $1,250,000 7%

$250,000 3 6 $750,000 $2,000,000 11%

$100,000 5 10 $500,000 $2,500,000 7%

$75,000 8 18 $600,000 $3,100,000 9%

Total 18 38 $3,100,000 $3,100,000 44%

Amount # of Gifts

# of

Prospects To Raise

Accumulative

Total $ % of Total

$50,000 9 20 $450,000 $3,550,000 6%

$30,000 15 25 $450,000 $4,000,000 6%

$20,000 25 50 $500,000 $4,500,000 7%

$15,000 50 90 $750,000 $3,850,000 11%

Total 99 185 $2,150,000 $4,500,000 31%

Amount # of Gifts

# of

Prospects To Raise

Accumulative

Total $ % of Total

$10,000 60 100 $600,000 $600,000 9%

$5,000 70 120 $350,000 $950,000 5%

$3,000 150 175 $450,000 $1,400,000 6%

$2,000 175 225 $350,000 $1,750,000 5%

Total 455 620 $1,750,000 $1,750,000 25%

Grand Total 572 843 $7,000,000 100%

$7,000,000 Total Need

Victory Teams Gifts Phase

A

B

C

Our Saviours Lutheran Church

Scale of Gifts - $7,000,000

Advance Gifts Phase

Pattern Gift Phase



Finally, in the words of several respondents when asked regarding the greatest benefits of this project:

Ability to move past donor fatigue … stop earmarking donations to other things/missions

than debt reduction!

Revenue can then be more appropriately used for missions

Ability to work harder and reach in to the local community to make Jesus known. More

activities to grow membership to our church, to sustain our ministries

Benefit – would allow us to focus on our mission without debt hanging over our heads

Freedom to enjoy the total service at OSLC and to help others in need

Free time, energy, and money for the mission of the church

Freeing the church to focus on how it can bless the world with its mission and ministry –

i.e. Become more outward focused

Not giving our resources to someone else to use but using our resources to move ahead

for growth

Good use of stewardship. We have wasted a lot of money

Being responsible … coming together closer as a community as a result

Freeing resources for ministry

Freedom from debt. Freedom to pursue “People/Community/Mission”

The biggest benefit would be that opportunity to allow OSLC to extend its ministry in the

future

Without the debt we can focus on the needs of our congregation and community which

are more immense than I believe our church recognizes

Reduce stress on members and programs from constant attempt to pay off debt and

continue to fund programs

More ownership of the Celebration! campus because it would be paid off! Church

models good stewardship for family’s personal lives

The spirit of the Church would improve – satisfaction of accomplishment

Grow ministry we already have and open new ministry

A brilliant move to strongly state that there is NO NIBBLING away monies for a host of

other programs and project as was done in the past campaigns!

Feeling of euphoria and a sigh of relief on the part of the parishioners

Eliminate negativity caused by debt hanging over us. Allow new adventures into mission

projects by energized individuals and small groups. Innovation and possibilities breeds

higher energy levels



Summary of Study Statistical Data

Debt Retirement Information Meetings

Measurement Qty Ratio

Quantity of Family Addresses in Membership File

1600

Quantity of Average Church Attendance 1200

Quantity of One Time Attendees at Meetings (% = 210 divided by 1200) 209

17.5%

Quantity of Multiple Time Attendees at Meetings 6

Total Quantity of Attendees at Meetings (% = 216 divided by 1200) 216

18%

Quantity of Focus Meetings 21

Quantity of Questionnaire Responses (%=151 divided by 216) 151 70%

Quantity of Persons Identified as Potential Campaign Leaders 46

Persons Willing to Volunteer Time

Measurement (of the 150 responses) Qty Ratio

Yes 32 21%

No 35 23%

Need More Information 52 34%

No Answer 32 21%

Totals 151 100%

Persons Willing to Support Campaign Financially

Measurement (of the 150 responses) Qty Ratio

Yes 89 59%

No 4 3%

Need More Information 35 23%

No Answer 23 15%

Totals 151 100%



Members’ Perceived Benefits

Debt Elimination

o Eliminate long term debt of $6.5 million to zero

o Eliminate interest payments and principal payments to zero

o Completely finish paying for what was started in 2003 at the

Celebration! campus

o Put the OSLC financial house in good order in anticipation of a new

Senior Pastor

o Mitigate “donor fatigue” issues

o Begin the process of freeing up resources for future mission and

ministry initiatives

o A sense of freedom, accomplishment, and closure



Professional Recommendations For the Church Council of Our Saviour’s Church

James D. Klote & Associates, Inc. respectfully makes the following recommendations to the Council of Our Saviour’s:

1. Prayerfully review the Questionnaire Responses and the Questions & Comments findings included in this report;

2. Evaluate the input pertinent to their respective areas;

3. Immediately begin a capital fundraising campaign to benefit from the momentum, enthusiasm, and communication efforts of the Readiness Assessment;

4. Make crystal clear that the purpose of this fundraising campaign is to eliminate long term debt only. I recommend that the Council pass a resolution to that effect before the public kickoff. In addition, it may be advisable to ask the congregation to ratify that resolution with a congregational vote. This will give the members ownership of the decision and the confidence that future councils or other leadership will not change the focus of the funds as they are collected. It will, effectively, eliminate any lingering campaign trust or transparency issues with one simple act.

5. Ensure that this campaign looks and feels different from all previous campaigns. This will be necessary in order to help members consider a different performance level from what was considered “normal” in the past.

6. Communicate a pledge period of up to five years. While receipt of pledge funds as soon as possible will be the most economical, it is simply not reasonable to expect all donors to fulfill their pledge upfront. Since this will be the largest campaign attempted by OSLC it will be important to give donors every opportunity to reach that goal. The option of pledging over five years will allow larger commitments to be made. The five year window will also help mitigate the “donor fatigue” issue. A five year block where no active campaigning is taking place will help give OSLC a needed break from routine, three-year campaigns.

7. A clear decision should be made on the use of the Mae Frutchey estate before the end of the campaign. There is much confusion on this generous estate gift, mostly due to communication from the last campaign which stated that it was earmarked for the chapel. In fact, this gift had no restrictions from the donor and can be used however the church sees fit. If the gift is to be considered as part of this campaign it should be done toward the end of the campaign and leveraged in the best possible way. One suggestion from the focus groups was to use all or part of the gift for debt retirement, but honor the memory of Mae Frutchey by naming part of the Celebration! campus in her honor. Another suggestion was to use the gift as seed money for the endowment fund. The chapel was also suggested but would require the funds to be invested since this building is likely not in OSLC’s plans for the next five years.

8. Pray – every day! Ask that God’s will for Our Saviour’s be served through the efforts of the various committees. Encourage one another to be receptive to the ideas and suggestions forming your capital campaign. Give thanks for those who in the past have planned and sacrificed for Our Saviour’s. Pray for those who are to come and share in the results of this plan.



Plan of Campaign

Phase I Preparatory and Advance Gifts Phase

Enlist Campaign Steering Committee & Hold weekly meetings

(A small group of outstanding leaders)

Prepare campaign materials (View Book, Pledge Cards, Brochure, etc.)

Seek above-average gifts on a limited, highly selective basis

Plan a church-wide Campaign Kick-off / Dinner Event

Enlist and train Chairpersons and Committee Members for Pattern Gifts Phase of the campaign

Phase II Pattern Gifts Phase

Conduct Training and Card Selection Session(s)

Hold Campaign Kick-off Dinner Event

Begin Pattern Gifts Committee visits immediately after the Campaign Dinner

Hold Pattern Gifts Report meetings

Deliver inspirational sermons and testimonials

Recruit Co-Chairs, Committee Captains and Visitors for the Victory Gifts Phase of the campaign

Phase III Victory Gifts Phase

Conduct Training and Card Selection Session

Visit every family and provide an opportunity to participate

Hold Victory Gifts Committee Report meetings

Celebrate Victory Sunday

Calendar

Recommended campaign is 16+ weeks: March 3rd through June 22nd

The Advance or “Quiet” phase is March 3rd through April 20th

Kickoff on or about April 21st

Pattern Gifts Phase – April 22nd through May 25th

Victory Gifts Phase – May 26th through June 22nd or until the vast majority

of visitation is complete



Campaign Organization

Pastors

The Pastors’ role is one of initiation, inspiration and support of the Capital Campaign and the Campaign Steering Committee. Responsibilities:

1. Attend Debt Retirement Information meetings as possible to lead prayer 2. Attend Steering Committee meetings 3. Make his or her pledge first 4. Assist in recruiting campaign leadership 5. Stimulate the congregation in sermons and announcements to understand and support

the campaign 6. Participate in solicitation visits on an “as needed” basis, especially in the Advance Gifts

Phase 7. Provide guidance to the Spiritual Emphasis Committee

Campaign Chair(s)

The Campaign Chair/Co-Chairs will lead Our Saviour’s in a successful Capital Campaign. Responsibilities:

1. Preside at Steering Committee meetings

2. Help identify, enlist and stimulate other outstanding leaders to serve this cause

3. Keep in constant touch with campaign leaders. Be confident that they are fulfilling their accepted responsibilities

4. Be in daily contact with the Campaign Office, devoting time and effort as needed to conclude the campaign successfully and on schedule

5. Attend all campaign meetings as outlined in the “Calendar of Events”

6. Assist in solicitation in all Phases of the Campaign

Campaign Steering Committee

The Campaign Steering Committee is the KEY to a successful campaign. Its members are persons of influence within the church whose involvement in the campaign inspires confidence that the effort will succeed. The Campaign Steering Committee sets policy and guides the course of the campaign. It consists of approximately 12 to 14 members, including Campaign Chair(s), chairs of the subordinate campaign committees, clergy, officers and at-large members. The Steering Committee guides the course of action during the campaign.



Responsibilities:

1. Work closely with the Campaign Chair(s) and the Campaign Consultant in developing and implementing the basic steps in the “Plan of Campaign”

2. Help identify and recruit key leaders to serve in leadership positions as needed

3. Establish a pattern of prompt, thoughtful and inspirational giving, thus encouraging others to do likewise

4. Be willing and able to make visits to other Campaign Committee members and church members

5. Assure that Campaign Committee members have made their pledges

6. Determine to give the campaign high priority during the sixteen-plus (16+) week campaign and perform duties with diligence and enthusiasm. Attendance at all meetings demonstrates hearty backing and support and provides the action necessary for success

7. Assist in planning the Capital Campaign Kick-off Event

8. Assure that the entire congregation is kept informed of the campaign progress

9. Help identify and recruit those members who will visit other members to participate financially in the campaign

Donor Review

Donor Review should be accomplished by three to six persons (3 to 6) who know the church family intimately. The task is extremely important and will set the stage for the entire campaign. The Campaign Consultant will meet with the members of the committee individually at the beginning of the campaign (other meetings are possible, but may not be required). Members will remain anonymous.

Spiritual Emphasis Committee

The Pastors’ role is that of initiation, inspiration and support of the campaign. He or she has the opportunity to challenge and stimulate the congregation to understand and respond to the campaign. The Spiritual Emphasis Committee will assist in developing a spiritual base for all campaign activities. This may be done by means of worship service announcements, reports in the newsletter, support at various committee meetings, development of a campaign prayer and the selection of a scriptural reference. The Spiritual Emphasis Chair will select a small number of members to assist in this important part of stewardship emphasis. The Campaign Prayer will be used in campaign meetings, worship services, campaign brochures and the Campaign Kick-off Dinner. The Spiritual Emphasis Committee also has the task of identifying and recruiting members of the church for brief personal statements or testimonials on the value that Our Saviour’s has had in their lives, or on their vision of Our Saviour’s and how they see the fulfillment of the identified needs enabling that vision.



Responsibilities:

1. Prepare a special Campaign Prayer that can be used throughout the campaign, during Sunday morning worship services, when groups meet during the week and as a part of each family’s devotions

2. Secure approximately fifteen (15) written testimonials or personal statements from various members, endorsing the project; statements about their personal stewardship decision and about the importance of Our Saviour’s in their lives

3. Secure devotional leaders for each of the Campaign Steering Committee meetings and Training meetings

4. Work with the Senior Pastor to provide lay speakers who will speak (not more than five minutes) during worship services and who will spiritually under gird the campaign

Publicity Committee

The Publicity Chair will need to involve a number of persons with him or her in carrying out the duties of this committee. The Committee Members will work with the existing communications team of OSLC as well as the Campaign Chair and Campaign Consultant in preparing articles for the newsletter, bulletin inserts, and other promotional and recognition materials. The Chair and/or other members will work closely with the Campaign Consultant in developing an attractive brochure to be given to each church member. They will also be responsible for preparing a progress display to keep members informed and up-to-date on campaign progress. They will also be involved with the Kick-off Event Committee and Campaign Steering Committee in preparing materials for the dinner. Responsibilities:

1. Work with the Campaign Chair and Campaign Consultant in the preparation of:

a. View Books b. Brochures c. News for the church bulletins/newsletters

2. Produce and keep current a campaign progress display

3. Serve as a clearing house for all public announcements as to plans and progress reports concerning the campaign

4. Prepare news releases as needed

5. Visit all of the church internal organizations to communicate the aims, purposes, and goals of the campaign



Congregation Treasurer (Executive Director)

Responsibilities and Guidelines: The Congregation Treasurer will develop policies and procedures to handle all pledges and payments received, deposit receipts, and payment of campaign expenses when they are due. All pledge cards must be signed. The arithmetic related to the payments and pledge schedule is to be correct and audited. The Administrator will provide accurate reports of all pledges, payments and expenses during the campaign and at the conclusion of the campaign. He or she will be responsible for tracking pledge payments and providing statements.

Fiscal Integrity and Comprehensiveness

1. Reconcile the Campaign Consultant’s Pledge Report, deposit money as it is received and keep an accurate record of the total received and disbursed

2. Audit records and pledge cards at the end of the campaign and prepare a proper summary as defined by the Campaign Consultant and the Campaign Steering Committee

3. Provide guidance and assistance with respect to all financial transactions in all phases of the campaign so that it may be concluded successfully and on schedule

4. Keep all campaign data, collection procedures, and accounts completely separate from other expense and income records

5. Treat all gifts, payments, and records confidentially

6. Use campaign funds only for the purposes identified and in the priority order established by the members of the congregation. There can be no exception regardless of the need or circumstance.

7. Even the slightest deviation from the understood use of funds can cause irreparable damage and may lead to significant payments shortfall. Innocence in the deviation may not be a basis for regaining trust. Perception of intended deception, whether true or not, is considered and will be treated as truth.

8. Make frequent positive announcements in church publications and in Sunday services to keep members and friends of the church informed and encouraged

9. With the help of the campaign consultant, write positive, upbeat thank you letters to all donors immediately upon notification of the pledge and on an annual basis. Make members feel good about their participation. Avoid any negative or pressure type letters.

10. Establish a process for the timely production and distribution of statements and follow up letters



Advance Gifts

Advance Gifts are those gifts to the campaign received during the “quiet” phase of the campaign before it is launched publicly. The Advance Gifts Chair (as needed), along with several selected members, plus members of the Campaign Steering Committee, will be responsible for securing major gifts that will represent forty to fifty percent (40% to 50%) of the campaign goal. This Committee will visit about ten to fifteen percent (10%-15%) of the active congregation. Committee Members should be persons of influence and affluence who will feel comfortable asking others of influence and affluence to make those leading gifts that will assure the success of the campaign. Responsibilities:

1. Make personal generous pledges to the campaign goal

2. Personally call on those assigned regarding participation in the campaign

3. Secure these pledges early (by the Campaign Kick-off Dinner) in order to set a high pattern of giving and assure the success of the campaign

4. Move forth with enthusiasm and with the knowledge that the success of the campaign is in its hands

Leadership Solicitation: All members of the Steering Committee are to be personally visited by a fellow member and asked to make their pledges to the campaign. These gifts will be added to the Advance Gifts.

Kick-off Event / Campaign Dinner Committee

The Campaign Chair will enlist a committee to help with the following responsibilities. The Kick-off Event Committee typically consists of three or four individuals and will typically be augmented with many others to assist with arrangements and the dinner itself. Specific responsibilities include:

1. Select the menu and make all arrangements for the dinner

2. Enlist a small committee to prepare, hand address, fold, stuff, seal envelopes, apply postage and mail Kick-off Dinner Invitations to each member of the church

3. Form a telephone committee to call each church family and member, encouraging attendance. This is a most important committee

4. Secure members of the Steering Committee and other officers of the church to serve as hosts and hostesses

5. Arrange for flowers and/or other table decorations

6. Check on speaker system and visual aid equipment

7. Make arrangements for transportation for the elderly, if needed

8. Provide activities for children and baby sitters



This Committee will work closely with the Campaign Chair and the Campaign Consultant, helping to coordinate the Campaign Kickoff/ Dinner. The Campaign Steering Committee will plan the program for the Kick-off event.

Pattern Gifts Committee

Pattern Gifts are those which immediately follow the kickoff and are in the “pattern” of those received during the advance phase. The Pattern Gifts Chair will enlist other top leaders capable of soliciting gifts from prospects giving in an intermediate range. Pattern Gifts will represent 30 to 35 percent (30%-35%) of the goal. The Pattern Gifts Chair attends the weekly Campaign Steering Committee meetings. Responsibilities:

1. As in the Advance Gifts phase, quality giving must be emphasized

2. A Pattern Gifts Committee Chair will be chosen during the advance phase. His/hers primary responsibility is to work with the steering committee and the campaign consultant to recruit sufficient volunteers to serve as visitors. Sufficient Committee Members will be identified so that all Pattern Gifts visits can be conducted, requiring an average of ten (10) visits per Visitor

3. Training volunteers in the “right way” to solicit is a key part of this phase

4. Members of this group should be encouraged to attend the regularly steering committee meeting.

5. Complete solicitation quickly and effectively, setting the pace for the Victory Gifts Phase

Pattern Gifts Organization:

___1__ (Qty) Pattern Gifts Committee Chair

__30__ (Qty) Committee Members (Each solicits 10 families)

__31__ (Qty) Total in organization

Victory Gifts Committee

Victory gifts are those received in the final weeks of the campaign and bring a successful conclusion to the campaign. The Victory Gifts Committee Chair will enlist other top leaders capable of soliciting gifts from prospects in the category of an appropriate level of giving in order to meet the needs of the Capital Campaign. The financial aim of this phase is to raise the final twenty-five percent (25%) of the campaign goal. The Victory Gifts Committee Chair attends the weekly Campaign Steering Committee Meetings.



Responsibilities:

1. As in the Pattern Gifts phase, quality giving must be emphasized.

2. A Victory Gifts Committee Chair will be chosen during the Pattern Gifts phase. His/hers primary responsibility is to work with the steering committee and the campaign consultant to recruit sufficient volunteers to serve as visitors. Sufficient Committee Members will be selected so that all Victory Gifts Committee visits can be conducted, requiring an average of ten (10) visits per Visitor.

3. Training volunteers in the “right way” to solicit is also a key part of this phase

4. Members of this group should be encouraged to attend the regularly steering committee meeting.

5. Timely completion of solicitation, allowing for a successful Victory Sunday

Victory Gifts Committee Organization:

___ 1__ (Qty) Victory Gifts Committee Chair

___40__ (Qty) Committee Members (Each solicits 10 families)

___41 _ (Qty) Total in organization

Implementation

This Plan of Campaign is a proven method of achieving the greatest campaign potential. The Plan will work. It depends; however, upon our working the Plan conscientiously and devotedly.

1. The Campaign Schedule must be closely followed. Any delays tend to get amplified throughout the remainder of the schedule. Campaign leaders must make the campaign a matter of top priority.

2. The ability to attend planning, orientation, prospect selection, and other scheduled meetings is a prerequisite for those to be enlisted as leaders and visitors. In recognition of the value of the volunteers’ time, all meetings will begin and end promptly as scheduled. Maximum attendance of Campaign Steering Committee Members at all committee meetings helps set the pace, build enthusiasm and ensure the successful conduct and timely conclusion of the campaign.

3. All visits will be on a personal visit basis, usually in the prospects home. Contacts by mail, telephone or by chance meeting neither produce the desired result nor dignify the campaign in the desired manner. Personal visitation has been a proven method for achieving objectives for at least 2,000 years. Whenever possible, team up with another person to add credence to the importance of the visit.

4. The pledge card system prevents duplicate visits and assures that each prospect is assigned to a visitor. The campaign office will prepare one card for each family (pledging unit). In each and every phase of visitation, prospects’ cards are to be selected, not assigned. This leads to more cordial and productive calling. Leaders and Visitors will not select his or her own pledge cards.



5. All prospects will be asked to “consider” an asking amount which has been determined from the Donor Review Team in relation to the total needs of the church. In this way prospects can see where they fit in to the overall picture to help the church reach its goal. Only by presenting individuals with a specific level of gift to “consider” will we realize “stretch giving” and gifts of a truly sacrificial nature.

6. Pledges payable over a three to five year period are encouraged.

The Our Saviour’s Capital Campaign will enable the congregation to take another step into the history of a wonderful church which began many years ago. This step has now become the responsibility, and the opportunity, of the current membership under the guidance of the Capital Campaign Steering Committee. Members of the Council have selected James D. Klote & Associates to provide consulting services for the Capital Campaign. The James D. Klote Directors have served churches as Consultants to Capital Campaigns for many years. The Plan of Campaign will serve as a blueprint for Our Saviour’s. The Plan focuses on presenting the vision of the church and the plan for debt elimination to each family in the congregation, and providing the guidance and opportunity for those families to participate in this historic moment. Members can provide greater financial support when they have more time to pay a financial commitment; therefore, an emphasis will be placed on personal commitments payable over a three to five year period rather than a one-time contribution. Needless to say, the earlier the donation can be given the better it is for the church. Donors, who have the ability to donate their entire pledge now, should be encouraged to do so. However this should not be encouraged to the detriment of a larger pledge that can be given over a period of years. Some may be concerned that even a three-year period is an uncomfortable timeframe. Strong consideration should be given to permitting a five-year period to those individuals. We urge your thoughtful study of the Plan of Campaign. Following the plan carefully and faithfully throughout the campaign is as important to the success of that campaign as following the requisites of a blueprint is to a builder. Both are based on practical experience and are of proven value. Your resident campaign consultant is Steve Siegel. Please feel free to call him at any time. He will be available for counsel and guidance at any time during the campaign. Moreover, he will be as engaged in the campaign and as committed to its success as the campaign leaders and other participants. His role will be to:

Provide experienced day-to-day guidance for your congregation’s volunteer leaders and other participants

Assist you in planning and implementing educational and information-sharing activities

Provide training and information materials for the campaign leaders, other participants and other members of the congregation

Serve as the “encouraging voice” to see that the Plan of Campaign is followed

Provide for the establishment and maintenance of the detailed records that are a part of the campaign and those that will be necessary for control and audit during the payment period



Recruiting Visitors

Sequence of events:

The Campaign Chair participates in a coaching (training) meeting

The Campaign Chair recruits other Chairs to lead the second and third phases of the campaign.

All visitors will attend a visitor orientation session conducted by the campaign consultant prior to making visits. This will provide the visitor with the appropriate tools, knowledge, and confidence to conduct a productive campaign visit. Visitors will have the opportunity to select the families that they wish to visit. To the extent possible, those selections will be honored

The Campaign Chair monitors the Visitors’ progress and leads by example in setting appointments, securing pledges and by attending weekly reporting meetings. Visitors should feel welcome to attend the reporting meetings

Recruitment Points:

Visitation period spans the period of the campaign phase

Visitors are asked to pick 10 prospects each from the list provided. These visits will be made during the period of the campaign phase

Visits are to be in person and preferably at the prospect’s home. The visits can take place elsewhere at a convenient location and time, such as over a cup of coffee before or after church, at lunch, or in the Visitor’s own home

Reporting meetings will be conducted weekly. It is extremely important that the Visitors attend these meetings whether they have pledges to turn in or not. Report meetings are brief, usually 60 minutes or less. They are; however, vital to the success of the campaign. They keep the visits “on the front burner” and are the key source of the campaign status. They also provide clues regarding any additional training that may be needed. Well-attended reporting meetings demonstrate a commitment to the campaign and help to build teamwork among the Visitors

Visitors can continue to receive updates and support from the campaign leaders and their fellow Visitors



Victory can be won by….

Seeing that all members attend the Campaign Kick-Off Celebration

Strict adherence to the time schedule

Advance visits with church leaders, other influential members, and those members who have more resources and are capable of larger gifts

A well-organized, informed and enthusiastic group of Visitors

Personal visits with every member of the church

Regular report meetings attended by each Visitor

The recognition that capital needs are different from annual pledging and require a sacrificial and inspirational effort on the part of each member of the congregation - leader and follower alike

Victory can be lost by….

Indifference

Procrastination

The use of letters, telephone calls or chance meetings rather than the planned and scheduled personal visits

Thinking that “our church’s circumstances are different” as a basis for circumventing proven campaign methods

A failure to see the value of the campaign, a failure to become aligned with the vision, or a tendency toward disinterestedness

A failure to develop a belief in the ultimate achievability of the objectives

2 Corinthians 9: 6-15-- 6The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. 9 As it is written, “He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” 10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; 12 for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God. 13 Through the testing of this ministry you glorify God by your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Trinity and by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you because of the surpassing grace of God that he has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.



Debt Retirement Information Presenter Schedule (Appendix A)

Date Day Time Location Historian Presenter

27-Jan Sunday 10:00 AM Conference Room Greg Nasman Steve Robinson

27-Jan Sunday 12:00 PM Fellowship Center Greg Nasman Lane Lewis

30-Jan Wednesday 7:00 PM The Temple Jim Panosh Peter Harvey

31-Jan Thursday 7:00 PM The Temple Jim Panosh Don Swanson

3-Feb Sunday 10:00 AM Conference Room John Endrud Peter Harvey

3-Feb Sunday 12:00 PM Fellowship Center John Endrud Lane Lewis

4-Feb Monday 12:30 PM Senior Luncheon Barbara

Rutherford Lynda DeVore

6-Feb Wednesday 4:45 PM Fellowship Center Julie Michael Lee Selander

7-Feb Thursday 7:00 PM The Temple Jim Panosh Steve Robinson

9-Feb Saturday 9:00 AM Conference Room Greg Nasman Lee Selander

9-Feb Saturday 6:00 PM Fellowship Center Greg Nasman Steve Robinson

10-Feb Sunday 10:45 AM Adult Learning Ctr.

CCLC Julie Michael Don Swanson

10-Feb Sunday 12:00 PM Fellowship Center Greg Nasman Steve Robinson

12-Feb Tuesday 11:00 AM Fellowship Center Barbara

Rutherford Jim Panosh

13-Feb Wednesday 1:00 PM Luther Court Julie Michael Don Swanson

17-Feb Sunday 10:45 AM Adult Learning Ctr.

CCLC Greg Nasman Lane Lewis

17-Feb Sunday 12:00 PM Fellowship Center Greg Nasman Peter Harvey

18-Feb Monday 7:00 PM The Temple Julie Michael Don Swanson

20-Feb Wednesday 7:00 PM The Temple Greg Nasman Lee Selander

21-Feb Thursday 7:00 PM The Temple Greg Nasman Don Swanson

24-Feb Sunday 10:00 AM Conference Room Lynda DeVore Steve Robinson



Readiness Assessment / Debt Retirement Information Meeting Questionnaire (Appendix B)

READINESS ASSESSMENT: Debt Elimination Information Meeting

Questionnaire

1. In your opinion, what is the single most important benefit to be realized as a result of the proposed debt elimination campaign?

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

2. In your opinion, what are the next 2 or 3 important benefits that OSLC would realize as the result of a successful debt elimination campaign?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

3. How would this effort help fulfill our mission?

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ 4. Have we forgotten anything? Would you add anything to this proposed plan?

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

Please turn over to complete the other side



5. A capital campaign requires many volunteers with varying responsibilities for its successful completion. Would you consider supporting a capital campaign …

Financially? _____YES _____NO _____Need more information Volunteer Time? _____YES _____NO _____Need more information 6. Which individuals would you suggest for leadership roles to ensure the success

of a capital campaign? _________________ ___________________ __________________ _________________ ___________________ __________________ __________________ ___________________ __________________ 7. My hope for Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church is:

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ 8. Do you have any additional comments regarding the proposed debt elimination

campaign? ________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Name: ____________________________ Date of Session____________________

(Individual responses will be kept confidential.)

THANK YOU!



Debt Retirement Information Attendees (Appendix C)

Dave Adeli Jon & Diane Forsberg

Seth & Karen Aigner Robert Fratini

Fernando Arriola Bernard Freese

John & Bonnie Ashman David Frey

Heidi Ashman Carolyn Fries

Joyce Bagamery Susan Fuhrer

Irene Baldasty Theodore Gasteyer, III

Kari Bardelli Michael & Nancy Gervase

John Beed Kelly Gilligan

Steve & Judy Bell Sara Gmitro

Judy & Nick Beskid Mark Goetz

Harlan Bobb Diane Greenawalt

Curt Boehmke Rev. Tom & Jeanne Grevlos

Brian & Nancy Bolliger Brent & Mary Ellen Grier

Mark & Caryn Borgetti Gisela Grosse

Graham Brenna Pam Gutshall

Christopher Brown Connie Halgrimson

Evelyn Buchanan Mark Hanson

Delores Candia Pete Harvey

Robyn Carlson Judy Healy

James Carson Sandra Henrichs

Jack Clayton Herman & Ruth Hezinger

Joan Clinton Bert & Sandy Hilding

Tom Cossa Clare Himmelblau

Nancy Couch James Hiner

Rev Al Creighton Allan Hins

Ray & Camilla Daly Bruce & Saralea Holstrom

Doreen Damge Bob Howe

Rich & Jan Danchisin Don Hower

Rev Donald Danielson Richard Hutchins

Dawn DeBoer Tony & Kristine Jacobson

Karen DePaul Gina Jenkins

Laura DiVincenzo John Jensen

Gary & Judith Dudlicek Gregory & Jean Jepson

Cindy Dumbell Roger & Jane Kahle

Rev. Jon Dumpys Eric Kallstrand

Tom Dusek Robert Krause

Dennis & Diane Eggers Robert & Bette Lacher

Jack & Marjorie Ehlert Charles & Beverly Lauth

John Endrud Ron Lehmacher

Michael Etter Muriel Lett

Don Field Lane & Johanna Lewis

LeRoy Lindberg



Debt Retirement Information Attendees (Appendix C, continued)

Brett & Marnie Lindberg Julie Rypka

Gary Lipkowitz Thomas Schneider

Susan Litwicki Marjorie Schramek

Clara Mae Locascio Jennifer Schuler

John Marquart Judith Schultz

Steven & Sandra Martinich Lee Selander

Les May Jennifer Sevatson

Jean Mayszak Dorothy Shaw

Mike & Jamie McCarthy Jim Sherman

Peggy McKinley Jim Smedegard

Ralph Meister Steve Spayer

Judy Meydrech Donald Swanson

Delbert Meyer Judith Swanson

Ron Milne John Swanstrom

Paul & Patricia Minta William Tadevich

Roger Modder Norma & David Thompson

Scott Moninger Leon & Linda Thomsen

John & Sharon Nasman Susan Tomczak

Cathryn Nelson Joel Truemper

Scott & Ruth Nelson Robert & Cheryl Turnquist

Jon & Julie Neustadt John Uhrich

Elaine Niemeyer Kenneth & Sharon Votava

Janine Norgaard Daniel Wallace

Bj & Kelly Okel, Jr Tracy Wang

Jim & Lynn Panosh John Wanska

John & Eileen Parent Jack Weisensee

Jerry Park William & Anne Wentz

Mary Patton Thomas Wesche

Paul Petersen Jill Westberg

Todd Peterson Jane Whiteside

Gary Pradel Leonard & Betty Wik

Mark Rahmel Mark Witt

Norman Redelsheimer Ann Wolfframm

Martin Rench Richard Yndestad

John Riddell Julie Young

Bruce Riley & Christina Hartley Victor & Sandra Young

Steve & Christine Robinson Judy Yu

Richard & Ruth Rogers Daniel Zollner

Wilma Roose

Barbara Rutherford

Jill Ryan



Volunteer List (Appendix D)

Kari Bardelli

Harlan Bobb

Rev. Mark & Caryn Borgetti

Graham Brenna

Robyn Carlson

Jack Clayton

Rich & Jan Danchisin

Rev. Jon Dumpys

Jack & Marjorie Ehlert

Bernard Freese

Mark Hanson

Pete Harvey

Bert & Sandy Hilding

Bruce & Saralea Holstrom

John Jensen

Kevin Jordan

Lane & Johanna Lewis

Bj & Kelly Okel, Jr

Paul Petersen

Todd Peterson

Norman Redelsheimer

Martin Rench

Steve Robinson

Randall Schneider

Lee Selander

Don Swanson

Susan Tomczak

Joel Truemper

Jack Weisensee

William & Anne Wentz

Ann Wolfframm



Responses to Questionnaire (Appendix E)

1. In your opinion, what is the single most important benefit to be realized as a

result of the proposed debt elimination campaign?

Survival of Celebration! The main church is just not large enough for our growing church and basic ministries

Not having to continue paying so much interest expense

Future mission potential

More funds to support external and internal ministries

Increased flexibility to fund missions

Frees up resources for ministries

Being good stewards of money and space

Allowing us to allocate dollars to the core ministry of the church

Transparency in leadership. Restore trust with what our congregation needs

Free up 500K a year for ministries

Eliminating debt will eliminate interest payments

Focus on ministry vs. mortgage interest

Available funds could be used for more internal programming for adults, kids, families, etc…

Free up money for missions

The amount of resources that will be freed up

To have funds available for programs and other ministries

Ability to focus on the real mission of OSLC

We would be free of debt and could address other issues!

Saving money

That more money can and will go to other things like outreach

Reduction of interest that we are paying at this time

More freedom and expanded missions

Everyone has a need to give (feel good!). Every member – all are important

Ability to move past donor fatigue … stop earmarking donations to other things/missions than debt reduction!

Apply the savings toward additional outreach and missionary work

Revenue can then be more appropriately used for missions

Increase in mission funding

More programs – more outreach

Ability to work harder and reach in to the local community to make Jesus known. More activities to grow membership to our church, to sustain our ministries

Reduction – redirection of interest payment

Won’t need to have another campaign for debt

1/27/13

1/30/13

1/31/13

2/3/13



No more nagging about campaign funds. Sometimes I feel like the church asks for money but not time

Have cash to optimize ministry

End of appeals

Debt free

Not throwing money away on interest that could be used for something beneficial to other programs

That we will be able to make Jesus known to more people through more missions and activities

Reducing interest

Freeing the money paid in interest

Benefit – would allow us to focus on our mission without debt hanging over our heads

Unlike Washington it would help keep us from kicking the can down the road

The big interest would be gone!!

Saving interest

If successful it would free up money for our missions

I don’t like debt and we keep getting more and more

Freedom to enjoy the total service at OSLC and to help others in need

Free time, energy, and money for the mission of the church

Freeing the church to focus on how it can bless the world with its mission and ministry – ie. Become more outward focused

To raise as much money as possible that is all put towards the debt

The congregation can move forward with mission and ministries without any debt constraints

We could use the money for missions

Pay less interest on the debt

Freedom

Relief from debt

Not giving our resources to someone else to use but using our resources to move ahead – for growth

Getting rid of the interest

Increase our mission in the world

Free up funds for other future ministries

Freeing up funds to be used more effectively

To spend dollars on more “Godly” missions than interest to a bank

To free up funds for what really matters

Free up funds for other ministries

Making money available for other ministries

To have funds to help other programs

Eliminate interest payments so savings can be used for better programs

To eliminate as soon as possible

To give more options with finance

Saved dollars in the long run

2/4/13

2/6/13

2/7/13

2/9/13



Free up debt service to fund ministry

Good use of stewardship. We have wasted a lot of money

Increased flexibility to direct resources toward local missions

Getting it done

Expand the church’s mission and be on good footing

Instead of spending money on interest, these monies could be used to further our church mission

Greater mission campaigns and adult activities

Possibility of new ministries

Might free up some funding for other as yet to be determined missions

To have the funds available to increase programs and missions to make Jesus known

Being responsible … coming together closer as a community as a result

Freeing resources for ministry

Eliminate debt so future income above operating income can be used for other ministry efforts

Missions and ministries

Freedom from debt. Freedom to pursue “People/Community/Mission”

Debt free allows us to touch more people and it frees us up to do more ministry and missions

Free capacity to increase missions

Going through Financial Peace University I can see the big picture of eliminating the debt. Growing several ministries is what could happen with the debt being gone

Saving on interest expense

I am aligned and in agreement of all that was presented in this area

Funds freed up for our true mission – “Making Jesus Known”

The future security of our church

Elimination of the current debt

Eliminate debt, but no more future debt

The church can do more stewardship and outreach in the community

Eliminates interest

The biggest benefit would be that opportunity to allow OSLC to extend its ministry in the future

Paying a lot less interest and being able to use our money for other things beyond what we are doing now

Contributions of the congregation will go toward more meaningful items rather than church’s debt

Not owing money; allows freedom for other things

Focus on our primary mission

Opportunities to focus on new missions and ministries

Financial stability and confidence to pursue expanding our church

Allows us to concentrate on other areas of ministry such as outreach, missions, etc…

2/10/13

2/12/13

2/13/13



Free up funding (from relief of interest) to enhance ministries

Eliminated interest payment going out the door

That we would have the ability to participate in more focused and exciting ministries and make them “Great!”

To not have that large amount hanging over our heads

Stop wasting dollars on interest

Free up funds for more missions

Freedom to move into a new era

More outreach would be made possible in the community

We will free up resources to do other items for the church

We will be able to concentrate more on mission work both local and otherwise

Have more money to work with

Not to enter into further debt! Need to reassure everyone that if everyone sacrifices that we won’t get back into debt

We are being good stewards of the money God gave us

Free up monies for major ministry by ending the interest payments

Continue missions

Free us to grow with the economy in the doldrums

Without the debt we can focus on the needs of our congregation and community which are more immense than I believe our church recognizes

Eliminate interest payments

Savings on interest payments

Reduction in monthly expenses

Beneficial towards decisions – support for projects considered worthy of support. Not bound and restricted to inactivity

Reduce debt

Trust

Rational time period

Free up funds to divert from paying for past capital expenditures and the interest on the mortgage to paying for ministry opportunities

Other mission and helping others

Be able to use funds for other sources and not being asked all the time for extras which other churches don’t ask for. For example, some of the Vacation Bible School CD’s are charged extra. Other churches this is free

One benefit is that we don’t need to have so many fund raisers for activities that should be included in the budget

Use money for other things

To be able to focus on other priorities instead of debt

Increased outreach programs

No more cash flow for interest payments! And other nonproductive cash outlays

With our debt gone we will be able to have more missions

No debt for the church can lead us to other possibilities such as mission trips

Missions and Outreach

Future outreach

2/17/13

2/18/13

2/20/13

2/21/13

2/24/13



Elimination of the enormous interest we’re paying

Free up energy and focus from debt and transition to service of others

As stated, a successful campaign will improve the church’s financial condition

Free up capital 2. In your opinion, what are the next 2 or 3 important benefits that OSLC would

realize as the result of a successful debt elimination campaign?

We could focus on other programs, missions, etc… that we can’t target right now because we don’t have the funds

Senior Pastor will have more time for pastoral care and preaching

1) Emphasis would change to a once a year pledge campaign which is essential as members are getting frustrated with one capital campaign after another – credibility issues. 2) More aggressive plan to open Celebration! To the community. Finish the concept of making it a community center

Better ability to fund our mission statement and our vision

Puts us on a firmer footing

Debt-freedom would allow us to focus on missions and ministries

Grow together and showing a long term vision

Better/more “Faith in Action” programs

Same as #1. Free up 500K a year for ministries

After that success, we could focus on ministries

Free to begin new plans for the future. Focus on growing missions locally and globally

Outreach – PADS, Feed My Starving Children, etc…

Be attractive to a new Senior Pastor

Build the chapel at Celebration! And enlarge parking

See above – have funds available for other ministries

Saving money is the most important in order to have other missions

Funds for maintenance of OS/Celebration

Funds for ministry programs, after the debt is under control

Allow things to happen you always wanted but couldn’t afford

Show younger people what can be done

Increase missionary work in other countries

Increase local outreach in Naperville and surrounding communities

Reduce stress on members and programs from constant attempt to pay off debt and continue to fund programs

Increased membership

Support of outreach ministries & global support

Financial leverage

Wider vision

Freedom to develop something new

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Discussion as a church would be transparent. Clarity of organizational status of our church

Missions and outreach

More mission work

Ability to reach out with more ministries

We could “do” other things with the interest saved

The ease of being debt free

More ownership of the Celebration! campus because it would be paid off! Church models good stewardship for families personal lives

To have a better game plan for not settling into this situation in the future

More ministries

Pay debt off quicker than 25 years

Energy and a sense of accomplishment

Budget

Ability to call a new Pastor and put savings to use

Increase our local programs

Financial leverage for future focus

If debt was eliminated – all new monies could go to our mission groups, PADS, Feed our Starving Children, expansion of programs at Celebration!, etc… Maybe people would be more willing to pledge money for these programs

No more capital campaigns

The spirit of the Church would improve – satisfaction of accomplishment

People will keep their level of contribution up once the program is over

Eliminate burdensome capital campaigns ongoing every 3 to 4 years

Options with finances

Able to increase ability to borrow in the future as now we are maxed out

Avoid passing debt to future members

More money for important things

Capital campaigns done on 2 to 3 year intervals drag down energy and enthusiasm

Eliminate continued campaigns and free funds for mission

Good stewards of God’s money

See above (instead of spending money on interest, these monies could be used to further our church mission)

Youth activities – senior high involvement. Create a better web site that is interactive

Spend the funds form the people more wisely instead of interest. To make Celebration! a fully operational building

Understanding of a commitment to give back to God what is His in the first place – understanding of tithing (financial peace)

Fund missions through the operations budget and reduce “competition” for missions dollars

Attract new members wishing to promote growth by other activities

Outreach, missions and ministries

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Tap the amazing mission ideas that are out there and yet to be thought of. Build community among congregants. For many, this is a huge part of our lives

Reach people effectively with our ministry effort and do more local and global mission work

Improved balance sheet and reduced financial risk

Reaching more local and global missions. It allows us to effectively minister to those who we reach out to on a daily basis

Better serve missions

Could invest in ministries rather than using dollars just to pay debt money

Elimination of the monthly interest payment

No future debt. Better assistance for our congregation members and others

Can expand youth programs with less fundraising. Can develop a program for single adults (they don’t feel at home here – nothing for them)

Grow ministry we already have and open new ministry

Capital improvements post campaign, expansion of missions, ability to maintain current programs at high levels

Clearer picture for all of us of what our church is all about. We need to know how much money comes in and goes out! Possibilities of new pursuits for our church

Eliminate some of the stress of overhanging debt

An opportunity to truly evaluate what ministries and expenses promote our mission of “Knowing Jesus and making Jesus known”

Support new programs

We would have the opportunity to choose what ministries are really worth focusing on and making them great. Once that happens you start bringing in new people who are passionate about what you’re doing “great” (not good) and you grow the Kingdom. So I only have 1 important benefit KINGDOM BUILDING

Everything back in one general fund

Missions, youth group activities could be fully funded by church budget and an end to continuous extra campaigns – be able to have only one pledge

Opportunity for more growth of current programs and completion of chapel at Celebration!

Feeling of euphoria and a sigh of relief on the part of the parishioners

Create more additional cash on hand in order to avoid future debt. Ability to continue to fund all current ministries in addition to new outreach

We could do more for the church with the extra funds

Focus more on mission work both local and abroad

Maximizing our resources

More money can go to the operating budget to help the ministries within the church and improvements to the building can happen

Get rid of the question: “Are they asking for money again?”

Greater ability to be flexible in existing ministry. Capital improvements/repairs as necessary that are paid for

Youth education

We would free money for mission

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I’d like to see the chapel built at Celebration! which would bring many more people to our church and ultimately benefit from increased donations

No more campaigns

More and better mission/outreach programs could be funded

Money to go to other ministries. Money to help church families

(Resources available) as decisions are made to address openings/situations/emergencies/needs

I am not happy that Celebration! is not complete and is not likely to be finished in the near future. This was not in the original plans (selling the idea of Celebration) to us several years ago, during initial campaigns.

Increase persons faith through doing other works

Help homeless more. Able to help other people. Be asked less for special offerings

Good stewardship is God’s way

Great pre-school. New members

Increased outreach programs and reduced need for capital campaigns

Eliminate negativity caused by debt hanging over us. Allow new adventures into mission projects by energized individuals and small groups. Innovation and possibilities breeds higher energy levels

We have people who care for and need our church

Youth scholarships

Less debt = more programs

Finish building at Celebration!

It would free up money for other ministries

More giving to missions and more programs at church

More missions and more outreach

Again, as presented, debt elimination frees up the operating budget or mission-driven programming

Same as #1 (Free up capital)

3. How would this effort help fulfill our mission?

We can make Jesus known in more ways than we are currently

I attach no importance to the pitch that reducing interest will free up money to expand ministries

It is our mission

Existing ministries could be enlarged and some new or related ministries could be started

Allow funding to drive growth and impact

Knowing Jesus and Making Jesus Known drive our missions and everyday decisions. We’d have the freedom to do that!

Making dollars available for implementing our mission

Proper stewardship

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Funding mission and vision ministries to really have an impact in our community

Strengthen the financial health of the church and support our individual focus on Financial Peace University

Free ourselves to help make Jesus Known. Focus more on what’s important

Free up dollars for mission

The freeing up of resources would help us move in a direction that will help us complete those missions

Grow membership – making Jesus known

Ability to be better stewards

We would be able to fund other programs – such as locally and not only in foreign countries like St. Raphael’s

Obviously we’d be able to fund others

We can do outreach, i.e. Make Jesus Known. Perhaps more related to health ministry

Pay off debt/interest. Outreach to the unchurched

See #1 above (more freedom an expanded missions)

Make spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ our number one priority

Stay viable in our existence & mission

Our work should be outside these buildings. We come here for spiritual food and to get energy to go out

To actually fund ideas to grow participation and programs offered through our campus

More possibilities for things like 3rd Place and evangelism

Our future efforts and finances could go to ministry

Reaching more people on a regular basis

Free up capital

Instead of paying interest we will have more money to make Jesus known

Less money going to interest

Greater fulfillment of mission

Same as above (we could “do” other things with the interest saved)

More money on hand

Dollars saved should be going to other people but not to us and our debt

See #1 (freeing the church to focus on how it can bless the world with its mission and ministry) Focusing on making Jesus known

It would enable us to do more in the future when the debt was paid off

If more funds are available for missions our outreach could be greater and therefore we could make Jesus known on a greater scale

Free up monies

It would help us get back to focus on the mission and vision

It will help to respect what kind of mission we should have if we do not have those debts

Better utilize our financial resources to fund productive missions of the church

Don’t do things piecemeal

Fulfill more missions

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We could focus on missions and making Jesus known

We would be concentrating on Christian missions and activities

Money will be available

Frees up dollars for better use (mission)

Positive cash flow / build our vision

Able to expand – future campaigns

Allow us to better fund missions

People going through difficult times need to be touched. Great opportunity for growing faith and church. Need to do ministry in this area

Focus increases in making Jesus known – programs and opportunities

Free up cash

We wouldn’t have to focus as much time and energy on catching up. We could use our finances to go ahead on some exciting missions

With Celebration! fully operational with staff on-site, OSLC’s doors will be opened to the community much more

We could know Jesus more as we Trust that we can do this and walk by faith

We already have important, inspiring ministries. Just think what more we could do

Best use of time and treasure

Always to make Jesus known to others by continuing to determine what is needed for our congregation members and for our mission partners

Better cash position

Allows us to spread the word to our local community and other campuses. Reach those Lutheran churches who are unable to sustain and grow in their community

Debt elimination would free us up to spend time, energy and dollars on ministries/mission/caring for people instead

More money to use for operations and missions

No more money for debt but money for helping others

This expands our ability to share God’s word with more

Assuming other expenses do not arise, would provide dollars for mission

Debt elimination brings freedom to fulfill the church mission of making God’s love known in this place

We would be able to reach more people

Growing generosity. We could be more generous on missions or other areas our community needs

Free up resources for our work

Good stewardship and model for all of us in our own lives

Opportunity to expand our ministry to other areas

It will only help fulfill our mission if we actually take the savings from declining interest and apply it to ministry (not developing the chapel or the houses we own, etc…)

Making Jesus Known local and missions

Building God’s Kingdom is, at its core, Making Jesus Known

Be able to “Make Jesus Known” thru expanded missions

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Continue to appeal to a wide variety of people seeking a Christian foundation for their lives

Less emphasis on giving money in addition to providing programs

Move us into position for new areas of mission

We could focus resources on helping people get to know our church

Give the church operating (revenue)

When additional debt is needed it needs to be voted on by all members

We would be able to freely give to missions within and outside of the church

Free up our mission to go forward

The resources are God’s resources anyway, so we can be stewards of God’s money in making Jesus known

We can get our mission of making Jesus known to more people in the community

Free up monies to help needs

Promote focusing on this target

Allow us to do more for the community

Being able to achieve support for projects and needs based on a sound financial position

Renewed investment and ownership. Financial resources to market and gain new members

Focus on mission

Expansion of outreach, community services & missions

What is our mission? It appears to be a moving target, without clear understanding

Divert funds from interest payments to programs

Helping others

Be able to reach more people by helping others

It would be more focused, more intentional

Encourage more family learning

The ability to focus and not be distracted by debt

The mission of the church is to help the community, but members and prospective members are turned off if the church is constantly asking for money above and beyond regular pledges

Allow greater momentum toward moving forward

We would be able to make Jesus known more often

More usable funds to Make Jesus Known

To know Jesus

We can better reach out to others to make Jesus known

Through growing mission driven programming

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4. Have we forgotten anything? Would you add anything to this proposed plan?

I think you need to talk about the Frutchey funds as part of the presentation – why it is being saved for the Chapel and how that decision was made

I don’t see a catalyst for donors to contribute more. A charismatic new senior pastor would help. (Tom Grevlos is charismatic)

Don’t forget newer members. Tap them

More effective use of Celebration! – Higher rents, more high visibility groups, more of a community perspective. More volunteers and staff. Improve growth opportunities – Visibility

Respond to the congregation about who is on the council and what is the expectation of people who are on the council

Donor fatigue. How long will the public appeal be? How much can the congregation stand to listen to this campaign

When Celebration! Was conceptualized we were told that space would be open to rentals to outside patrons. We haven’t utilized this premise very much have we?

Dollars other than donations, i.e. Rent Celebration! space. Why have we lost members? More dollars from preschool. Before we had a preschool we had someone else running a preschool in Celebration! I think they paid around $100,000 to church a year. Are we getting market rental on the rental house?

Examine reducing or eliminating or postponing missions so more revenue can be applied to debt reduction

Look at reducing debt by refinancing and applying savings toward principal to reduce the term of the mortgage

Continue to attempt to Re-finance at lower rates. Any possibility of defaulting on the debt?

In the matter of personal calls – could some people come to the church at a scheduled time and a specific room

Share this information with the congregation that does not attend these meetings

Annual offerings and do they meet our expenses

Trivia night fundraiser for the community. Eliminate expenses such as donuts

No, sounds straight forward, direct and simple

If there could be a way to give to mission that would be great – 1% even. We exist for other

Have documented goals and setup regular checkpoints to measure how we are doing. Share with everyone

Whoever the new pastor is … no pet projects, no chapel – even if they don’t add to the debt – until Celebration! is paid off. Don’t use the Frutchey estate for anything until debt is paid off

An expectation that every giving unit gives $13,000/giving unit = $6.5 million BUT the amount seems insurmountable given our economy. I’d like to hear a message of hope

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3

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3

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If the congregation contributes heavily to this are you worried that folks won’t give in the short term

The plan is good

A home visit may result in a low/minimal cash donation for those that now cannot afford to give in this economy. May consider broadening family visit information to requesting more than only $ request – as increasing discipleship through time and/or talent and/or treasure contributions. Time and talent commitment may provide an entry point for first time non-contributors. May consider u sing the effort to visit each family to sow the seeds for future increased giving and growing discipleship/OSLC involvement in the future

Find a way to communicate to non-traditional givers (e.g. young families) that they have a role and even small gifts can make a difference

Look at operating budget and how that money is spent too. Minimize the need to do separate mission fundraising

As we reduce/eliminate debt what is the vision for OSLC beyond and what is a reasonable time frame

Time frame of plan. Assume 3 years

If we don’t have a capital campaign continuously, we might all cut back on our giving

We need to get out of debt as quickly as possible, 3-5 years and in the future, raise the funds before any new capital improvements or big projects

We also need to grow as a church to increase our members … “Make Jesus Known”

Ministries, missions and outreach are important to me and knowing we could do more makes a difference. The point was made that when the current campaign ends, there is nothing designated to pay this debt. It’s important to clarify that and make it understood

Highlight the tremendous outreach that Celebration! has made possible

No. Looks good to me. On second thought, probably needs to accelerate a legacy gift effort with senior members

Mainly to communicate this dire situation to the rest of our congregation

Commitment for no more or limited future debt

Need to try for a lower interest rate

Savings - renegotiate the mortgage. This is a good idea. I will get involved

Many older people are or will be on a very limited budget and may not be able to contribute as much as they would like to and many who could afford it may not be willing because they are against expansion from years ago

The plan seems to have no room for discussion. Give more money than you already do. That’s it. What bothers me is that this church doesn’t fulfill my needs. I want to connect to know Jesus better. Why should I give more money to a church that I may not stay with – that doesn’t provide opportunities for me or my children to connect and be better educated on God’s word

Should we put some programs on hold to focus on debt reduction

Look at creative fundraising, ways to get more people involved in the campaign. Suggestion: Host church community parties and fundraisers like we used to in

2/9/13

2/10/13

2/12/13

2/13/13

2/17/13



the 90’s. An outside BBQ at Celebration, perhaps, that brings the church together in community. Create more opportunities outside of worship and specific ministry events to get to know people

A new approach to getting more pledges is needed. I didn’t hear anything promising at the meeting from the consultant. Stress the missions that already happen at Celebration!, but don’t make this a campaign for Celebration!. Rather, stress that this is one church

If we had no debt today, what are the five things we would do

(Humorous) Taxation

Just be very clear about what we need to do to eliminate the debt. Use the information in the slides

Besides asking members for money have fund raising events open to the community

Would think more focus on revenue generation somehow

Inviting people to be a part of this debt elimination to maintain the established ministry and move toward greater ministry and outreach – the personal invite is key

Do we need to change SS and Youth programs? Maybe need ministry to college/post college here in Naperville. They (young adults and youth) do need a say – they need a forum

We need to eliminate our mission efforts that we so generously extend outside our area. I think it’s time for Slovakia mission to work on its own and reduce our Africa obligations until we can afford them

There are new needs and unknown support. Be prepared and open towards “worthy” situations to be supportive

Accountability. Accountability breeds response-ability (Steven Covey)

Communicate with what happened in past campaigns, myChurch, Reduce debt and keep it low

Eventually build a chapel at Celebration! There needs to be follow-up to let people know where the money raised was actually used. We need more communication

Difficult financial times would make it hard for a lot of families to give more

Could we have more fundraising opportunities

I would like to see brainstorming to try to think of more creative ways to rent space in our facilities to help raise money to pay off the debt

After this debt is paid off I would like to see a focus to continue debt free into the future

In the presentation there was no discussion of OSLC’s capacity to support such a campaign

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5. A capital campaign requires many volunteers with varying responsibilities for its successful completion. Would you consider supporting a capital campaign …

Financially Yes _88_ No __4 Need more information _34 Volunteer Time Yes _32 No _ 35 Need more information _52

6. Which individuals would you suggest for leadership roles to ensure the

success of a capital campaign?

Suggested

Leaders

Last Name First Name # of times

suggested

Last Name First Name # of times

suggested

May Les

Aigner Seth 2 McCarthy Jamie

Borgetti Mark McCarthy Mike

Brown Chris 2 McCarthy Mike

Creighton Al Mevis David

Current Council 5 Miller Wayne

DeVore Lynda Montgomery Doug

Dumpys Jon Nelson Eric

Dusek Jan Nelson Beth

Fuhrer Sue Panosh Jim 2

Fuhrer Lance Panosh Jim 3

Gervase Mike Petras Kristin 2

Gmitro Sara 2 Petras Sam

Goetz Mark Riddell John

Hallen Mark Robinson Steve 4

Hamilton Brian Rogers Dick 2

Harvey Pete 2 Schneider Tom 2

Hiner Jim 2 Selander Lee 2

Hutchins Rick 2 Siegel Steve

Jensen John Swanson Don 7

Jepson Jean Tadevich Bill

Kahle Roger Truemper Joel 2

Lewis Lane 3

Lindberg Lee 2

Lindberg Marnie



7. My hope for Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church is…

A Wordle based on Question 7:

Notice the prominence of the word “continue.” Members are generally pleased with what OSLC has been able to accomplish so far

and hope that it will CONTINUE to know Jesus and make Jesus known.

That we can eliminate this debt to stop paying so much interest

We don’t have to sell Celebration!

Stronger mission and better communication on the website

Thrive as burden free as possible to continue the great work we already do

Use this campaign as a forum for open communication and an opportunity to make the church pull together

Solvency

Move on debt free!

We continue to grow together as a church

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It can continue to be a vibrant faith community, welcoming new members and missions

Being able to focus on mission

That there will be a vastly improved communications and transparency among the staff, council, and congregation

Continue to grow the sense of community that this church provides for the members. This will grow participation as more people belong

Continue to be an important part of the Naperville community

To grow strongly making disciples that will spread the word of God!

To do more in terms of social justice activities/theology

To become a better church

To continue to make Jesus Known and to become a better church

Relief from debt

Grow membership. Success in eliminating the debt and never take on more. Offer more programs and services, utilize our Celebration! Campus. Maintain the campus building (leaking roof)

Increase its present ministry. Include more financial help for the music and arts

1) Growth in membership, ministries/missions. 2) Participation by every member in service/mission. 3) Increase in financial stewardship for both general operating and future building and campus expansion

Survival!

Continue/expand mission and Celebration! Campus and expand the use of rental facilities

To continue growth for ministry and outreach to community after debt is controlled

That we can continue to make Jesus known with all of our missions and activities

Continue to grow spiritually and meet the needs “locally”

We need two pastors to replace Jeanne and Tom. There is something very special about having a husband/wife team

To grow us all as disciples with many opportunities to serve

I need to join as I am not a member at this time

Continue to grow and in time to attract young people with kids (that’s the most important)

To be debt free

That it continues to be member active

That Our Saviour’s will be able to continue serving the ministries and missions we currently have and expand as needed

Continue with its missions with a vibrant congregation

We continue to be alive in our relationship with God, each other, and our community

To continue to be a successful and vital member of the community

That we can be energized by being debt free and gain a laser focus on what our missions and ministries really should be

Debt free in 2016

Focus, Focus, Focus, on Jesus and NOT programs and projects

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That people see OSLC as their own church, that they love their church enough to support it financially

Not to have any more capital campaigns

To grow and continue to grow

The church will continue to grow and flourish and the congregation doesn’t “flat line”

To continue making Jesus known to all people

It grows and grows

To continue making Jesus known, debt free!

Grow and help others

To continue outreach to older members

Communication/transparency/increased focus on discipleship, not only financial giving. Need a state of the art website to increase information transmission. It is difficult to navigate. Website could be a daily go-to place, but now mostly used as a staff phone number look up site

Continued ability to support missions

We get evangelism and a heart for the lost in our DNA

Dynamic, living, growing, teaching spiritual body with balance mix of local and world missions

To be in a financial position to expand our mission going forward to grow the congregation

Continue to help the community

To continue contributing, as in the past, with PADS, etc… to participate AND be solvent whereas it is important to become more of a church community

Debt free

Continue our mission and outreach without wasting so much of our financial resources on debt interest

Renewed Spirit

More openness to people with disabilities especially invisible disabilities

We will be good stewards of our resources and encourage all members to participate in as many activities as they can, both financially and personally as well

To see Our Saviour’s be able to continue to grow as a church and reach all demographics

Continue the good work

To be a growth oriented church that continues to grow and changes as trends and demographics change

We have a loving impact in ways I/we haven’t even thought of yet

To become debt free in 3 years and to have both campus’s fully staffed and used to the maximum benefit to the church and the community

Continue to grow. Like the idea of helping smaller churches continue to serve their members by video support

That our commitment and our “growth” becomes inspirational and contagious so we can continue to bless others through missions for the future as well

To continue to grow in membership!

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It continues its current mission with a growing congregation well into the future

Achieve our mission

To be a vibrant, faith-filled, growing community – a light to the community

To continue to be a nurturing church home and to continue its outreach and increase it

No longer in debt

To be financially solvent and able to continue its ministry

We continue to be a vital, active church (i.e. Consistent numbers participating in worship/youth programs, with slow, steady growth in membership)

That it will continue to be a beacon for Christ in our area and beyond and a spiritual haven for all of us sinners

Expanding our influence on this community – Christian – expansion. The world needs more Christian involvement

That we grab this opportunity to more wisely use the resources we’re given

To focus its efforts on ministry as opposed to debt reduction exercises

Connect our members. Become a family. Know Jesus. I think this is done through more small groups, more Biblically based education opportunities

That we can focus our ministries without alienating a demographic. That we can turn good ministries into GREAT ministries. Getting more people connected and excited about what we’re doing and developing happy givers

Continue to know Jesus and make Jesus known

To focus on ministries. Debt elimination is a great idea, but not at the peril of ministry

Encourage more families to make pledges. Do some cost-cutting until this debt is in control. Say “no” to any new expenses

To continue to strengthen the lives of all those in need of God’s love

Eliminate debt and continue all the current ministries while creating new ministries that reach more of the community while bringing in new members

To survive and thrive in a more debt free environment

To continue to grow and to be a leading church in the community and all of the ELCA

To continue to make Jesus known and provide a church home with opportunities for all – education, service, etc…

To continue to grow

To become debt free. Possibly increase the youth program to grow and foster the youth and young families

That we are transparent in what we do with our money and that we trust God with it

Growth !!!

To continue missions locally and other countries

Continue to grow

To reduce the debt so we can focus on the needs of our church and community

To meet the needs of others

Eliminate debt, maintain cash/investments to provide funding for operations and missions and outreach

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To grow our numbers in our congregation. Membership growth and growing closer is important

Ongoing support, spiritual materials, stay on a solid base in the future

Continued viability, growth and outreach

Continued mission

Continues and gains strength for future generations, spreading the Word of God and the love of Jesus

The church can grow its membership across all demographic categories; OSLC like many organizations is aging rapidly

That it will flourish and be a beacon of light to the community

Growth

Find a new Senior Pastor that meets our growth and needs

It become financially free to open more possibilities for church

To fill the pews every Sunday

Maintain at high levels the mission statement that the Grevlos’ so ably promulgated

Better attendance both by established members and prospective members. As a Sunday School teacher, I’ve been noticing class sizes going down over the last couple of years

Operate in the black

More Bible study groups. Grow deeper

Keep spreading God’s work and try to get everyone involved

To continue to grow

Helping others and making Jesus known

8. Do you have any additional comments regarding the proposed debt elimination campaign?

We should spend the $800,000 Mae Frutchey unrestricted grant to pay down Celebration! Debt. This grant is a gift from God to help us pay this debt

We do have debt fatigue among the longer term members

We should be realistic that there will be more capital improvements needed in the next three years

Don’t cut missions to do this! What’s going to happen when this debt is retired? Won’t there just be new projects? Don’t let that “one on one” campaign become high pressure

I feel we should move forward

I truly feel that the campaign is 6 months pre-mature. Debt reduction is a noble goal but I believe we should re-examine the timing

Let’s do this. Faith in Action always provides for positive experiences

Wait for Senior Pastor for main campaign. Get commitments from major contributors up front. Expect Celebration programs to be self-supportive

This campaign must be open and transparent to be successful

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Encourage all to participate no matter of amount they can give

Be sure to make contact with membership that has joined/benefitted from use of new Celebration! Daycare and preschool facilities. Go so far as to post signage with contribution box at coffee ship at Celebration! Facility. Maybe someone will donate a golden coin

Have personal meetings and “open door” coffee ship and offer free coffee!

1) Long overdue. 2) Feel conflicted over past campaigns that promise of not having to continually fund was not kept. I, for one, have huge donor fatigue (circled) 3) I would like to see the newer members step forward like _____ and I did over ten years ago when we first joined in 1985

Every dollar helps. Publish how much debt $1 would eliminate for the church. Explain the difference between general giving and capital funding. These meetings are good, but very few will attend these meetings

Singular focus of debt reduction. Better communication as I have been confused in my past pledges

I liked the idea of telling the successful stories and making the fundraising fun

What can be eliminated to achieve the goal? Programs? Do we have too many staff members? We seem to have the same people contributing to all our capital drives, can you reach the non-givers? That is the challenge

Let’s look forward and not focus on past expenditures! Celebration! – “making Jesus known in the community!” “We” are Our Saviour’s

Be more cautious with our spending

Having been a member since 1964 I can’t believe it’s come to this. Too much staff? Mission giving is healthy and as it should be. Volunteers like us are unheard of – how sad. Guess we need a country club membership, per say. But we can do it!!!

This was a wonderful presentation! Proud to be a pastor of this church

Reduce the number of missions temporarily until some debt can be reduced. As a congregation member, it is difficult to pay offering, contribute above that for special missions and weekly “special” offerings, plus another $ amount for a capital fund

Need to get the word out, I think

I really liked learning about the history of OSLC. It would be great for everyone to see this

We must find a way to get all members to participate, to contribute dollars, even if minimally. Everyone needs to be a part of this, to feel a part of it. That’s the challenge

Our general operating budget reflects our priorities. Four finance people (essentially full-time) is not a good use of salaries. It sends a negative message that dollars are more important than ministry staffing

Communication must address campaign fatigue. Also get additional givers beyond “usual suspects.” Need to address concerns about how money from debt was committed and spent

Have more options

Thrivent Choice dollars could help with no money out of their own pocket

2/3/13

2/4/13

2/6/13

2/7/13

2/9/13



Be sensitive to people with financial limitations

Excellent idea, about time!

I believe that as we need to “give” out of our running budgets … as demonstrating “good stewardship” we need to take a good portion of that “Frutchey estate” money and reduce debt as well as use some to do more honoring work as well. I believe Financial Peace is an integral part of that debt reduction part. Everyone needs to see it to view tithing in a whole new light

Please re-consider the use of Mae Frutchey’s gift. A chapel (while a nice memorial) is a luxury expense. Spend wisely. Lead by example. Do not rob Peter to pay Paul. I fear that our mission partners (PADS, L&F, FMSC…) will see a reduction in direct gifts from OSLC

Need to get everyone involved

We have a program at church, Financial Peace University, that helps people get more out of the income they have. We have over 160 people go through the class. Church leaders need to lead by example and go through the class and spread the word

First, why are we paying for consultants? Seems the money could be better spent on reducing the debt. Second, in an era of overspending and runaway debt by institutions (clearly including our government) it would be good if Our Saviour’s explores making a pledge and commitment to no further capital spending on facilities, enhancements, etc… (aside from routine maintenance) until the debt is paid off. I think this would come off as most/more credible. Thanks for the opportunity to participate and provide feedback

Kind of Financial Peace U for the church

Be realistic

The economy has still not recovered. My husband has been out of work going on 2 years. He was the sole provider to our family. I’m sure there are other families in our situation. How will this campaign be presented to us? We have nothing to contribute at this time

Need procedures to follow so no additional debt is incurred. Ask main church in St. Paul for suggestions to eliminate debt

How long will this last

Would like to see the chapel built

Reduce expenses. I have a son in Boy Scouts in Troop 107. The troop used to do a spring grounds cleaning. Now the church pays someone to do it. Why? I have spoken to the scout leadership and they would be willing to do minor jobs for the church, painting grounds cleaning, etc… The labor would be free. You are asking me to give more. Reduce your expenses first

You can hold fund raisers such as: Spaghetti dinners, Corned beef and cabbage dinner, Pancake breakfasts, Picnics, Bake Sales, Holidays sales. Sell tickets for these. For any future project raise at least half the money needed before proceeding

Let’s reach out and inform all about the need. I know it’s tough for economic reasons in most families now

2/10/13

2/12/13

2/13/13



Good presentation. Extra money to help our own members in need and even help other churches (any extra money that may come later)

I am not a fan of debt (who is?), but if the debt elimination steps in front of ministry, then let’s stay afloat paying interest and continue to provide ministry. Reality is that as soon as debt is eliminated, someone will have an idea for a new expansion. We are about ministry, not buildings or land

Can we double or triple our principal payment each month? What happened to the money donated to build the chapel at Celebration!

Give a sampling of some visions that are being held back to date

I think we should very seriously look at using some of/all of the Mae Frutchey money to help eliminate the debt. Allowing the church to move forward and focus on GREAT kingdom building initiatives is a wonderful, lasting legacy. That money does not, by any means, solve our problem, but it would help in a major way. That, I believe, honors her memory too

The $700K bequest should be applied towards the debt. How much is this new consultant costing? I have doubts that we can get 3X the amount pledged in the last campaign where we also made personal appeals. I don’t really see any new approach being suggested. We are “campaign” weary after many campaigns. It was surprising to see just how little has been applied to Celebration! How do we convince those who don’t attend services at Celebration! or have kids in youth group to feel an obligation to still support Celebration! Missions there?

Celebration! campus is a wonderful site. An in depth review of the site and how it could create more revenue while staying in line with our mission statement should be considered. Kids Street@ Trinity Lutheran is a great example, faith oriented basketball leagues for children are also great opportunities

Persistence

Lots of communication to ALL members is critical

On the negative side, too much emphasis on “money” results in a lot of negative reactions by the congregation. We need to delete the debt. I just hope it’s done with sensitivity to the needs of the congregation

100% participation

Thank you for the meeting. It was very informative and helpful

Perhaps better communication as to where the debt is and where we should be. Maybe monthly or quarterly updates

I am a single mother. I am not sure I can help financially, but I am willing to volunteer my time. Celebration! is the reason why I joined OSLC

I would applaud the idea of contacting the entire congregation, especially those regular attendees who do not currently pledge. We should also look for ways to engage people in all areas of the church. If they feel invested they may be more responsive to giving

Manage a church more like a business. That’s not to say that Church is a business but many aspects of business applied to the church model would make our church stronger

Get more people involved with the Celebration! campus. Great campus. More than just for the kids

2/17/13

2/20/13

2/21/13

2/24/13



A brilliant move to strongly state that there is NO NIBBLING away monies for a host of other programs and project as was done in the past campaigns!

It seems to be that there are only certain people who will take time to know what is going on with the church. And only some have the willingness to help

Please don’t pay off this debt only to take on a similar or larger amount of debt in the near future

The church needs to be more targeted in messaging and needs to understand its membership capacity

It seems to me that we have not controlled spending for the last 7-8 years. Seems like contributions for Celebration! have been allocated for other purposes

Debt Retirement Information Meeting Questions and Comments (Appendix F)

The 500 or so donors we have for the current campaign – seems like we need to double the amount of the gifts to make this happen? What is the catalyst to find the dollars – or the potential to increase the 509 existing donors

Why aren’t we using the Mae Frutchey gift for debt retirement

Maybe the new pastor would inspire giving

What is the name of this consulting company again and who selected them

What was raised in the other campaigns – each one

I’m new, but I had absolutely no idea we were paying $47,000 a month for debt payments. There’s not a lot of financial information given at OSLC

Have we explored other revenue potential at Celebration

I don’t think we should sell of any property to pay our bills, short of that I think it will take 15 more years to pay off this debt. I hope I’m wrong

How is this possible? Love to see this and am 100% behind it, but how?

Is there an attempt to get at more than the 509 donors from the last campaign

Are there other ways we can raise money than from us? Rentals, etc…

Tell me more about the previous campaigns

Re: Facility usage. Some lack of communication with rentals. I also don’t think we’re asking enough for rentals. Need more hours to oversee the rentals

I appreciate all the hard work you’re putting into this. This is central to us. But I don’t think this is about nuts and bolts to me. It’s about trust, visibility. Re: Church Council, transparency is necessary

I think there’s donor fatigue and volunteer fatigue due to a lack of trust

Is it realistic that there won’t be other major work in the future – capital repairs for instance during the term of the campaign

Re; Church Council; I couldn’t find out who is on the Council. I found out by looking at the names on the mailboxes

1/27/13 #1

1/27/13 #2



Re: Council and transparency; some of this is the culture of the church. I see that beginning to change slowly

Difficult to argue the merits of this idea, but the timing still concerns me. 6 months yet?

Transparency. I don’t know how the council is chosen, or who gets nominated. I don’t know them. Why did we have only three candidates for three positions

I’ve been a member here for 20 years and I still wonder how people get approached for Council

Have we looked at the demographics of OSLC re: donations? Seems like a tough time for those who might give from assets, what about a request for wills and other planned giving

We need to balance between missions and paying the debt. Are we taking any dollars from missions for this? Or redirecting the operational budget

Need some level of austerity measures in the budget, but we do need to spend some dollars to bring in more. We could use some investment in our streetscape and signage

How will capital campaign information be shared? Too much in worship can be a bad thing. We need to maintain the integrity of the service

The church actually voted back in 2003 to do 4 appeals to pay off Celebration! This would be the 4th appeal, but we haven’t necessarily done a good job of communicating it

Expectations. Not often an expectation among Lutherans to pay off a project. Nonetheless I think there are donors who won’t give if the dollars are diluted like previous campaigns. Needs to be a commitment from leadership to carry it out. Need to realize how important this debt is

3rd Place Ministry. Tell us more about that and what the plan is. Are there any financial commitments from OSLC for funding

Tell me more about the process. What happens next after this assessment period

We need a phone campaign to get people here to these meetings

Did we do a debt elimination campaign prior to 2004? How did that go

The “sales points” seem similar to the last campaign – more of the same. I thought the majority of gifts last time were supposed to go to principal

This is a good idea, no question about it, but we’ll have a new pastor in the next year with other ideas. Who’s to say that the funds don’t get diverted halfway through

Aren’t there enough dollars put away for a chapel at Celebration!

What is our current interest rate

Having some debt isn’t necessarily bad, but it has to be more manageable than it is now. Maybe at some point we could add a chapel

Sometimes it seems that dollars are not spent wisely. It’s important to have controls over how dollars are spent. Do we have adequate controls in place? When things like that happen it sends a message to the congregation that’s not good

Seems like we need more discussion like this on big dollar items

1/30/13 #3



Maintenance should come out of operations, not all out of capital campaigns

Part of the problem here is only a few people hear about it and then we decide – a fraction of who should know

There’s not anything necessarily “sexy” about debt elimination, but it is to some people. This idea excites my husband – about what we could do without debt. We need to reach people with that message

What is the membership now

Are we talking about paying debt or restructuring it

What about openness and transparency in this campaign. What it needs is openness. I think half the congregation knows about this. Honesty was shown here in this presentation. I appreciate that. I think for this to be successful it must be honest and transparent

What is our active worshipping membership now

At what age do we count someone as a member

I think it is a worthy goal. Mortgages are a necessity but an expensive one. But we should try and achieve the goal. But we should also have a Plan B and what the money gets used for if we don’t raise it all. If that is understood by everyone I don’t see any reason why it wouldn’t be successful

What’s the timeline for the campaign and for debt elimination

Outside groups: Do they pay a fee, including weddings

Previous Re-fi, when was it? Could we have saved the refinancing cost and applied it to principal

Do you have more details regarding previous campaigns like New Dimensions

Is this target possible? We thought that growth in membership after we built Celebration! Would pay for future costs

What’s going to be different this time

Re: donor fatigue. I’m a product of Celebration! Daycare. We joined OSLC because of it. It’s a wonderful facility and mission. More of “us” may need to talk about it more to remind everyone of how important it is

The $1.8 million for operational budget. What does that pay for? Does that represent everything we need to run the church? Is the $47K mortgage payment part of that $1.8 million

I’m fearful that based on previous results that I’m not sure we can raise that kind of money

Debt to valuation of property is not a concern right? I assume the limit from Thrivent is based on debt to income

What does our operating fund go to? What does it fund

So, the $1.8 operating does not include the monthly P & I, yes

Why is that not covered under operating (P&I)

Has the church ever been in a financial squeeze over the last three years as far as the operating budget goes

How much of a reserve fund do we have

Among the current membership of OSLC, how many pledge

What makes us think we can stir up interest for this

How do we reach out to people who aren’t here

2/3/13 #5

2/3/13 #6

1/31/13 #4



I budget overall in my giving to church, why do we always have two different appeals

Rent for Celebration! Is that earmarked for debt or operations

What is the occupancy rate at Celebration!

Is there a possibility of expanding the Child Care Center without adding on to the building

When would the campaign start

This seems like a daunting number/task

I’m absolutely on board with this. If we don’t change we’re going to nickel and dime this thing until it ends

We need to be singularly focused on this!!

What other ideas do we have to save money

What is the purpose of these groups meetings? It doesn’t appear to me that we have much choice but to have a campaign to pay the debt

We need to make clear that we don’t’ have a choice, that we will run out of money in July if we don’t do something

It will be important to specify what this drive is for – what am I pledging toward

How do we do this in the midst of a change in the Senior Pastor position

If the campaign starts in spring, but I don’t give till December, how will that help the cash flow in July

So if I understand this correctly you’re looking at OSLC to double its giving each year for the next three years

What does that $1.8 million in annual operational giving cover

Are we talking about putting other large projects on hold for now until we get this taken care of

I just don’t understand big money like this. It’s confusing. Can you explain it a little more

Have we bitten off more than we can chew

If I read it right, I see we’ve collected $7.9 million in pledges. Seems like we should have paid it off by now

Who decides how to spend money at OSLC – approval process

Was it necessary to do the lower level build out at Celebration! before we had it all paid for

If this goes through, will it be “written in blood” as it were? Can I be sure that funds will go to principal and nothing else

Has the church put aside dollars for emergencies? A reserve fund

I think we’re all a little silent right now because we don’t understand how it has come to this point. Who is taking responsibility/accountability? Are we bad managers

How do we, as church members, help hold the church accountable? What can I do as an individual member

So, I’m allowed to ask about spending I see that I may not agree with? Who would I ask

Do some families designate their gifts for specific projects

Is all of our staff paid? How many staff do we have, PT and FT

2/4/13 #7



What is the amortization schedule of the current refinance

What did we raise in previous campaigns

Did the participation rate in our previous campaigns trend up or down

How many members do we have

How many years would we have to pay in this campaign

Are we looking for other sources of revenue besides the church membership? Events, for instance

How much is the Mae Frutchey estate and how will it be used

What’s the current rate of interest

What is Thrivent

Is this better than a bank

Did you explore the ELCA extension fund when refinancing

Seems like in other campaigns other programs were added, or things were added. So leadership is saying this is all we’re going to do and nothing more

Were there dollars donated toward a chapel in the past

Wasn’t $700,000 designated for a chapel

Are the debt campaigns spoken about in the presentation that raised 3X to 4X annual giving recent campaigns

Have we done a study of the demographics of OSLC

Are we looking at ways to save dollars on operating? Are we looking at everything

Is membership trending up or down, or plateaued

Is there enough parking at Celebration!

How many members don’t give? Can we address this

Has there been a change in that percentage of non-givers or has it been pretty steady

How often are our membership rolls kept up to date

How long a campaign will this be – how many years

Has the cost of the consultant been donated

What about loans from congregational members – loan internally

What if we sold Celebration! and then leased it back

Seems to be underemployment and unemployment still in our area

What’s the progress on the process to find a new senior pastor

What are we using the homes on Robin Hill for now

Are they cash flow positive

What is the current interest rate on the loan

Appreciate the candor very much. But I see the $2.5 million going elsewhere in the past. How’s our annual budget doing to keep up with expenses? Will we be able to keep up if we don’t have a capital campaign fund to dip into

How do we improve communications, particularly toward adjusted expectations if we don’t reach the goal? I don’t think that happened very well in the last two campaigns

The decision that debt reduction took a hit because of other expenditures was news to me

2/6/13 #8

2/7/13 #9

2/7/13 #10



Lack of accountability and lack of transparency need to both be addressed

Where does the proposed chapel come in

Is there a possibility of including time and talent inventories during these personal visits – besides the ask for dollar support

What’s the growth level of the congregation – demographically

How many families are giving

Worship attendance seems flat

The explosive growth at OSLC after WW II was understandable given birth rates, so the recent flat-line is also understandable. That’s a big change, but an understandable one

Will there be any other revenue providing activities connected with the campaign

Regarding previous campaigns and the over and above giving: Has there been a corresponding lull in the operating giving

Does OSLC pay taxes

Where you started this presentation is correct. We are constrained in what we do because of debt payments. This laser focus is what we really need

This campaign idea has energized me. I was a little burned out, but this has me thinking seriously about how to make this thing really work

Maybe we need a “here’s what we did” type of forum during each campaign – to help communication

There are differing opinions on disclosure of finances. I ask for accountability on finance and clear, frequent communication on spending

This idea is a real blessing. We’ve got some horses in the race now

In the Connections newsletter I’m reading about a 3rd Place ministry. Are we biting off more than we can chew

When we borrowed the money initially, what happened to our plan to pay it back

The plans we’ve had so far to pay it back haven’t worked

What is the best rate we can get? 5.25% seems high

What would we do without the debt payment? Are there things being held up now because we’re paying debt

What are we (Our Saviour’s) getting out of this 3rd Place initiative

If people kept giving like they are now, then what

How many are participating in myChurch right now

If the capital campaign is paying the mortgage, why would you assume it will continue to be given after the debt is paid

What are the homes on Robin Hill being used for currently – rental

What is the lifespan of the gym floor over at Celebration! Is that a possible large expense in the near future

One this is done will the church re-focus with these thoughts in mind, meaning keeping debt to a minimum and not taking on large debts

I wonder about Edward Hospital. Would they want this property

Is OSLC bloated in staff

Are we concerned about losing members to Good Shepherd

I’ve heard many families (personally) who have left to go to Good Shepherd in the last 5 or 6 years

2/9/13 #11



Where are the council members shown on the website – or anywhere? I think that maybe some issues haven’t gotten to you as council members because people don’t know who you are and don’t know where to go

Let’s make sure that we stay sensitive to a family’s individual financial circumstance when asking for money

In our own household we try to make good financial decisions. I understand there was a gift given for a chapel. Do we really need that? Is it necessary? What is happening with the chapel project

I’d rather leave dollars in my estate so that the church can do mission work

The $1.9 million of operational budget – is that a reduction from previous budgets? Does the P & I come out of that

If it came out of operating we’d have it, but you’re actually looking to replace a different revenue stream to pay that mortgage, correct

So this would be a restricted campaign

I don’t think it’s a bad idea to buy properties if we need them. I’m glad we bought that house when it was available

What is the time period of this campaign? 3 to 5 years

Do you think we’ll always have the pink envelope (capital envelope)? Ongoing capital campaigns all the time

Is the debt combined between our expenditures between the main campus and Celebration!

If we get all members involved at all levels I can see how we could do this very easily

How many OSLC members don’t give

How many members do we have

So explain this more. This 600 that have been giving to the capital campaigns, we need them to give more, or are we looking at more donors to participate, or?

What has the average gift been in the previous campaigns

I don’t think there’s much of a choice. What you’re talking about, though, is tripling the current level of giving

This church enthusiastically decided to support this mission at Celebration! 9 years ago, so I think we all need to enthusiastically support this campaign now

We’re moving soon so we won’t necessarily be participating in the campaign long term, but we’ll still make a significant contribution to this effort

I think we’ll do more than you think if you lay out a play and stick to it

I think it’s an excellent idea. I wish I could help more. How long will this go on

We’ve had every member visits before, but we were much smaller then

Can Synod help – with funding? Extension fund

There are churches that have gone bankrupt and loans called in. It can happen

The decision to purchase Bethany – unfortunately we could have known that it had to be torn down before we purchased it and therefore negotiated a better price

Every member campaign is a good idea. We need to increase the number of pledging families

2/10/13 #12

2/10/13 #13

2/12/13 #14



If I’m going to give I want our loan people working on the current loan to negotiate a better rate

How many giving units do we have

We have a lot more potential than what we realize

I think it will help to have the church show that it is taking this seriously and that we, therefore, should also take this seriously

Time is money. What is the term of this campaign

Do you think this would cut into other funding for ministries

I can see that this needs to be done – absolutely. So are there other ways for us to do this besides donor contributions. Coffee shop revenue? Benefit concerts?

Could a benefit concert be used to do this – allocate dollars for this purpose

Concerned about our ministries. Have previous campaigns impacted the growth of our ministries

I’m on a fixed income. There’s only so much there

Can I assume that all other expansion is now off the table with this plan

The future. Are we going to be different in the future, like raise the money first before taking on large amounts of future debt

Which campaigns did these extra expenses come out of

What is the interest cost per year now? What is the $500,000 earmarked for again in this campaign

When the campaign is over will there be a report? Is there a report after these focus groups

What percentage of the church contributed to the last campaign

What do we need to operate the church, the operating budget

Is it possible that the current “non-participating” groups could help prop up the church while the rest of us go after this

What if we raise too much money? Exceed the need

What are we going to do to inspire people to contribute? What’s the carrot

When this is done, here’s what we can do…. That’s the carrot

People need ownership and need to feel that their gifts matter and make a difference

What is the time frame for this campaign? How many years

Can you tell me what the other three campaigns raised – individually

Do you know how many people participated in those past campaigns? Has participation been steady, gone up, or down

If they didn’t contribute before, why would they now

What’s the “carrot” in this pitch? What will we do? What more is there

What about the operating budget? Are we looking at that too? New projects tend to always get a green light

I like the idea of the Chicago initiative, but we’re not committing anything to it right now

It seems like that Chicago initiative is moving forward. That’s what all the communication seems to indicate, but now I hear that it isn’t. So which is it

I thought the chapel was a bequest

We wouldn’t we use the Frutchey estate money to retire debt

2/13/13 #15

2/17/13 #16



Looking at these previous campaigns it seems like almost 50% was not debt reduction. Was that communicated, or did I miss something

There had to be a cost for those previous campaign brochures and marketing materials. Seems like too much is spent on materials in order to raise money

I’ve been here 35 years and it seems like there’s always something, but I do think that focusing on the debt this time around is a good thing

I think that a lot of us are clueless about how the money is spent at OSLC

I know the 80/20 rule, is that what we expect in the campaign too

How are you going to ask people to triple their pledges in order to reach this goal? Is that realistic

So why aren’t those other 50% of members giving? We do lots of good things, but we’ve become unfocused and I think that members don’t know what they’re giving to

Maybe we need to say no to a few things

Something has to change. What we have been doing isn’t working

We have a big staff because we have so much. Sustainability is key. We need to have sustainable programming

How attractive is it to a new Sr. Pastor candidate to know that the church has $6.5 million in debt

I really thought that we were closer to being done with this debt. It truly is surprising to me that we haven’t made more progress

We have a debt, but maybe part of that is just the cost of doing business

We can’t afford to pull back too much or it will suck the life right out of the church

I can’t see eliminating ministries to eliminate debt unless it is decided that it really isn’t fulfilling our mission

But we have to have some checks on our spending or we’ll never pay this off

Eliminate duplication and other less critical services/programs. We don’t want to cut our ministries so that it ends up hurting us later. I think we all agree on that, but we do need to focus

Does the council evaluate new ministries, or who makes those calls

How do I know who the council members are

How much do we really want to share to the entire membership? Shouldn’t there be a certain amount of confidentiality and discretion

Do we know how much money is brought into OSLC from outside groups

How do people know who to contact for renting Celebration

We could use better publicity. The website is terrible

How are our current repairs being paid

What is the plan for raising the money

Where is the money coming from to pay the debt currently

Have we made good on the chapel legacy

We still have $6.5 million left? I know the plan was to pay it off with multiple campaigns, but I was shocked that we had not made more progress. I was absolutely shocked that we still had $6.5 left

Honesty and transparency will be necessary in this next campaign

2/17/13 #17

2/18/13 #18



I know that we did other things in those other campaigns but it just surprised me that we had that much debt left. I just wasn’t aware

Is this going to be another 3 year campaign

How’s the coffee shop doing? Are we making money on that venture

I thought that originally we thought that the coffee shop would bring in revenue, that and other projects at Celebration!

What is the current interest rate

What will be the term of this campaign – how many years

So what do you see happening after this campaign? After we pay off the debt are we going to go ramp up all sorts of projects again

I’m on board with this – with debt elimination. I wasn’t real happy with previous campaigns and how it was spent. I’m a good steward of my own resources and I think the church should be too. I don’t think we’ve been good stewards as of late

There may be an issue with expanding the parking lot where we own the two houses. It was a big court battle last time

I’m amazed at how much we paid for that house

If I understand this correctly, we do not budget for principal and interest in the operating budget, it all comes out of the proceeds of the capital campaigns

Is Celebration! totally solvent in its operational costs

How much do we anticipate gaining by visiting everyone personally

Is our congregation decline, increasing or flat

I did some of that personal campaigning in the past when I was younger. It seems that times have changed and that some aren’t interested in that kind of contact

Is Celebration! being maximized as far as rentals are concerned

Could we put some of our stuff on hold and just rent the heck out of Celebration! for a few years to help pay this off? What could that bring in? Would it even be worth it

Celebration! is my home. That’s where I first started attending and the only reason I’m a member of OSLC is because of Celebration!

I thought that one of the main reasons we did Celebration! was for youth activities and retaining our youth. Is that working? Do they think that it’s for them

Answer: Not really. I don’t think so. They don’t like being in the basement and felt displaced when they were moved

If you ask the kids they don’t think that they “own” it

Seems to me that this (youth) is an important issue. If it’s because we’re not utilizing the space properly then we need to change that

I volunteer at PADS. Lots of people that we’ve helped there comment on how nice a facility this is and that we offered a tremendous amount of dignity to them when they came through the program

There are a lot of ways to give money here, lots of pitches for different activities. Is it in the plan to have fewer pitches and pay some of these things out of one operating budget

Could I speak to that (above comment)? People’s faith is at all different levels. Some give like they’re going to a movie, others give to help fund a budget, and

2/20/13 #19



still others give because of specific ministries they believe in or have been touched by. I would urge caution in taking away all of those specific opportunities to give

Regarding hospitality. Is there any special emphasis planned on gaining members? A membership drive, so to speak

Everything here is great. I really do love OSLC. But are we going after others who may also love what’s going on here – intentionally? Are we going after them rather than waiting for them to come to see us

I’d like to touch on that (above)…when a new person comes they need to feel welcome and there must be intentional follow-up and also a good worship experience. All three need to be there

I also think that we could use some more emphasis on the college or young adult age group

The 3rd Place ministry. Someone needs to fill me in more on that whole concept, on what it is and if we’re funding it. Seems to me we have plenty of kids here without going to Chicago

I’ve heard some comment in that 20‘s age range group that they may not feel as a part of this congregation as they could. I think it’s important that we seek them out for their opinions and desires or they may choose not to be that involved if they think the ‘adults’ are always running the place

I’m not sure how to fit in here. I’m new and hardly know anyone (Note: this comment ended the discussion for the evening, but an OSLC member sitting in front of this person turned around to chat. Contact information was exchanged)

What changed in our expectations to get us here? Were we expecting to be done now, or at least have more progress made toward retiring the debt by now

We’re renting out the houses so they’re not a cash drain, correct?

I thought that by now we’d be in a position to do the chapel. Is that off the table now

What is the interest rate and the amortization schedule

Is the mortgage payment included in the operating budget

So, it seems to me that if we don’t do a campaign we can’t pay the mortgage

Are all the properties included as collateral for the mortgage – including the houses

So, this proposal seems like we’re trying to pay off a long term asset with short term donations

So once we pay it off, then what

What would be the duration of this campaign

Is the plan to visit every member of the church

I think that face to face meetings are best, it’s certainly the most compelling way to make an appeal

In past campaigns we’ve had something inspirational to get excited about. This is so different. Paying off the sins of the past, so to speak. What is the inspirational element? What is the emotional connection? Seems like it might require a different approach or appeal

2/21/13 #20



The old adage says, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” How do we know that this won’t happen again? That funds will only go for debt service and not be diverted or diluted elsewhere

How are we doing on the operating budget? Is that behind as well

Why do we need to chase people down to make a pledge at all? Seems like it shouldn’t be that hard

We’ve been here for 15 years. Our daughter just returned from the Haiti trip which has been inspirational. I think people give for two reasons, 1) to give back to an organization that has given me so much, or 2) tax reasons

Shouldn’t we get a better interest rate being a nonprofit or is it the other way around

Is there a cash flow recapture clause in the current loan document

What is the check and balance to assure that funds don’t go astray

I applaud all of you for doing this. It isn’t easy and you’re doing a great job. Thanks

How many years will this campaign be

Can we raise funds from other churches or from the denomination office, grants, etc…

Has there been any thought at all about selling Celebration!

Could we do more rentals at Celebration! to help raise money

What are the other options for funding beyond congregational funding from members

I know that there’s a YMCA summer camp at Celebration! for example, and I know it gets used quite a bit by outside groups. Even the kitchen is rented out now for food preparation

What is the budget going to look like when it’s done so that we don’t have all these little fundraisers going on constantly? Can we consolidate the operational budget a little to fund these groups so they don’t have to constantly fundraise

What is our membership now

How do we compare to other churches in terms of membership vs. worship attendance? About average

Are there plans to build the rainy day fund higher after the debt is paid

What is the current interest rate

Does that higher rate mean that we’re a higher risk than a conventional home loan

How many members are on the finance committee and the council

How can contributions be made to this campaign? Weekly, separate check, stock, etc…

Given the declining success of previous campaigns how do I square that with the 2nd bullet on the slide that says we can raise 3 to 4 times annual giving

Haven’t we tried to do that in the past – every member visits

Why is this different

I think communication could improve

So how much of the debt was paid with the myChurch campaign

Has the Mae Frutchey estate money gone into any fund or designation yet

2/24/13 #21



Is there a way to re-ignite enthusiasm like when we built Celebration!

Do the members feel that their money is going in the places they want

Do we need to re-introduce people to what is going on at Celebration!

Seems to me that you need to demonstrate to me that this has potential AND to be specific about the uses of the money. Answer the question, “Did they really spend my money as they said …”

Do you think there will be reluctance to give until we have a Senior Pastor in place

I think a new Senior Pastor will appreciate us taking care of this now, before he/she comes

I’ve noticed a drop in attendance lately

I think this is a chance for a new beginning. This is a challenge for us, as members. New beginnings

Is there more of a push among our leadership (council) to make this more of a debt free or debt limited church

Correspondence Received: Email received by Don Swanson, Sunday February 10th from Focus Group participant. See attached.





Debt Retirement Information Meeting Presentation (Appendix G)

Documents

Our Mission - storage.cloversites.comstorage.cloversites.com/oursaviourslutheranchurch...A PowerPoint presentation with appropriate pictures, graphs and data comprised the primary