Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the questions that have arisen from the Feasibility Study that was conducted.
Q: What is the overall goal of the campaign, and why now?
A: The campaign allows us to address safety and maintenance needs while enhancing our sanctuary to reflect the beauty and reverence of our faith. Our goal is to create a sacred space that honors tradition and inspires future generations to worship and grow in faith at Holy Family.
Q: If the altar needs to be moved, why is re-doing the sanctuary necessary?
A: Moving the altar is an opportunity to address other needed updates within the sanctuary. Since this area is central to our worship, coordinating updates—such as lighting, flooring, and design elements—ensures cohesive, reverent, and visually unified improvements while avoiding future disruptions.
Q: Will the choir area be relocated?
A: At this time, plans for the choir area have not been finalized. We are mindful of concerns regarding sound quality and accessibility, and if a change is made, both of these will be fully addressed. The Diocese’s Director of Worship has also provided recommendations. If the choir is relocated, the space would
not be smaller. It would be situated in the back-left section, with chairs directly facing the altar. The cantor would continue to come to the ambo to lead the congregation.
Q: Why are we using a capital campaign to pay for maintenance issues?
A: Holy Family does not have a separate maintenance fund. Routine repairs and upkeep are covered through our annual budget, but larger projects—like lighting replacement, accessibility upgrades, and safety improvements—exceed what our normal budget can cover. A capital campaign allows us to address these significant needs responsibly and ensures our parish remains safe, welcoming, and functional for years to come.
Q: Why isn’t the pavilion project included in the capital campaign?
A: The pavilion was not included because it is a brand-new, free-standing structure, and several key decisions still need to be made. We are currently determining the size, design, and specific uses of the new space. We had planned to use this campaign for renovating and improving our existing Parish spaces. But we have discussed this with the General Contractors to get a cost and plan together. So at this time, we are exploring the option to include it when Door D is worked on.
Q: Can we do fundraisers instead of a capital campaign?
A: Holy Family has always valued being a welcoming, community-centered parish. We intentionally avoid charging for parish events—such as parties, guest speakers, and special gatherings—so that everyone can participate. Hosting one capital campaign allows us to focus our efforts and raise the needed funds efficiently, rather than continually asking for smaller contributions through multiple fundraisers. One united effort will benefit everyone and support the long-term needs of our parish facility.
Q: Why should parishioners help fund projects that benefit future generations?
A: Most of us worship today in a church we didn’t build or pay for—one that was made possible by the generosity and vision of parishioners in the 1960s. Just as they gave so that we could have this space to gather, we now have the same opportunity to give forward—to ensure that our children and grandchildren have a vibrant, welcoming parish home for years to come.
Q: What about our current diocesan savings account?
A: Every parish has a savings account with the Diocese. Ours serves as an emergency fund that we can borrow from if absolutely necessary, but we try to reserve it for unexpected situations. The purpose of the capital campaign is to proactively fund known needs and planned improvements that will secure the future of our parish facility.
Q: Does all the money raised stay in our parish?
A: Yes! All funds raised through the capital campaign remain here at Holy Family and will be used directly for our parish improvements. These funds are completely separate from the annual Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) and do not affect our yearly offertory obligations.
Q: What if we don’t raise enough money?
A: Capital campaigns typically span a three-year pledge period. Construction usually begins during that time, and as pledges are fulfilled, the work continues. If needed, the Diocese will provide a loan to cover construction costs while pledge payments come in over the three years, ensuring the project can move forward without delay.
Q: Our CSA goal is hard to reach—how can we manage a capital campaign?
A: The Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) is a yearly campaign set by the Diocese to support many causes across the Grand Rapids area. This capital campaign, however, is specifically for our parish. Many parishioners who do not participate in CSA are still eager to support this parish-focused campaign. Think of it this way: CSA helps our neighbors, but if our own HOME needed repairs, updates, or maintenance, we would naturally prioritize those needs. We all belong to this parish, and this is our opportunity to care for our HOME. Several donors have already come forward, and many parishioners have expressed how important this campaign is for their family and future generations.
Q: What happens if the pastor changes during the campaign?
A: Pastoral transitions are normal. I plan to remain at Holy Family throughout the campaign. All plans are approved by the Diocese, ensuring that any future pastor will continue building on these approved projects.
Q: Has the budget been adjusted?
A: Yes, we have refined and reduced the budget based on the priorities identified in the feasibility study. Our goal has been lowered from $3,000,000 to $2,200,000. We plan to stay very close to this number as we carefully prioritize the work, ensuring responsible stewardship of the funds raised.
Q: Were multiple quotes obtained for the renovation work?
A: Yes. For the renovation project, we received three bids from qualified general contractors: Rockford Construction, First Companies, and Wolverine. Two of the bids were very comparable, and one was significantly higher. We will not be using the higher bid.
Q: Door D is locked on Sundays—why is an update necessary?
A: We are planning a smaller canopy similar to the one over Door B, our main entrance, along with new concrete to make this entrance ADA compliant. These improvements will enhance accessibility and safety for weekday use and other events. (AA, the Food Pantry, the Baby’s Room, and other outreach programs.)
Q: What will Door D look like?
A: Door D will feature a scaled-down canopy consistent in style with Door B, paired with updated concrete walkways to provide a safe, accessible, and code-compliant entrance. ADA
Q: Does the parking lot need to be replaced?
A: Initially, we were informed that the parking lot was sinking and would require full replacement. However, after testing done by Soils and Structures and reviewing proposals from three contractors, we found this is not necessary. The contractors have recommended alternative solutions to stabilize the lot, enhance safety, and allow for restriping, providing a cost-effective and practical approach.
Q: Do we need a new sound system for the Holy Family Center (HFC)?
A: No. While our current HFC sound system is not the latest technology, it remains fully functional and adequately meets the needs of how the space is currently used. A major upgrade is not required currently.
Q: Why is the lighting system being replaced?
A: Our current lighting and dimmer system has reached the end of its service life. Buist has advised that replacement is necessary due to the system’s age and the unavailability of parts. While we previously had electricians familiar with maintaining and rebuilding the system, both have since retired. As part of our Sanctuary restoration, we are evaluating a new lighting solution, including LED options, which may qualify for rebates through Consumers Energy. We are continuing to explore the best approach to ensure a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective upgrade.
Q: Even though the carpet is 30 + years old and still looks good, does it need to be replaced?
A: Yes. While the carpet may appear serviceable, it has numerous cuts and tears and is considered past its useful life. Replacement is recommended to maintain a consistent and safe environment, especially following the recent updates to the Narthex.
