Letter from Richard: We did it! And other thoughts

Dear St. Paul’s,

We have something to celebrate: we have met our stewardship goal for 2026 of $1.05 million! Each year as we prepare for our annual pledge campaign, I’m reminded that stewardship is never merely about numbers—it’s about the story those numbers tell. This year, that story is particularly powerful. It paints a picture of a community that is giving more per household than ever before, a community rooted in generosity, resilience, and deep commitment. It also challenges us to reflect on how we nurture and grow the circle of people who call St. Paul’s their spiritual home. As we look toward a season of transition and discernment, the faithfulness of our people continues to be one of our greatest strengths. As ever, it also makes me incredibly grateful to every one of you.

With the pledge campaign now completed (though we will always accept new pledges or increases in current ones!), I want to share where things stand today. Based on current data, we’ve assumed that households who have not yet renewed their pledge for 2026 will remain non‑renewals, though our stewardship team will continue to reach out, especially to significant past givers. Under that assumption, year‑over‑year renewals decreased by $31,656. While that is a notable drop, we have also received $20,745 in new pledges, bringing the net change to a modest decrease of $10,911.

Here is the broader picture:

• 2026 Pledge Goal: $1,050,000
• Renewed Pledges: $1,029,417
• New Pledges: $20,745 (14 total)
• Total Pledges Secured: $1,050,162
• Remainder to Goal: –$162
• Goal Completion: 100%
• Total Pledges Projected: $1,050,162 (211 pledges)

Reaching—and even slightly surpassing—our financial goal is remarkable. It affirms what many of us feel intuitively: our congregation is giving more generously than ever per household. This is cause for real celebration and deep gratitude.

At the same time, the data highlights an ongoing trend we must not ignore: a gradual decline in the number of pledge units over several years. While financial strength is essential, the vitality of our community also depends on broad participation, shared ownership, and the formation of new pledging households. This concern becomes even more significant as we look ahead to the search for our next Dean.

That said, I remain hopeful for several reasons. First, late renewals are common, and we anticipate that some will still come in. Second—and importantly—I am aware of several individuals who give regularly through the plate but have not yet transitioned to pledging. Even a small number of these conversions would shift our net change solidly into positive territory. The potential is real, and the stewardship team will continue nurturing those relationships.

As always, the strength of St. Paul’s lies in its people: in your faith, your generosity, your love of this Cathedral, and your desire to see it thrive. Thank you for all the ways you support our mission, our ministries, and one another. Together, we will continue building a vibrant spiritual home for years to come.

I want to be sure to thank our Stewardship Chair, Demetreus Gregg, the Stewardship Committee, our staff Accountant Wes Dayhoff (whose language I borrowed directly to frame this letter), and the staff and community for helping us mark this significant milestone in our common life. Dean Penny, who I also want to thank for entrusting me with this process, can leave on the highest of notes this summer: having transformed the face of our campus for the better, and with the finances for the year in great shape. Brava!

With gratitude and hope,
Richard