GIFT Parish Endowment Fund

1. Submission. Applications will be considered in the fiscal year in which they are submitted. The fiscal year opens on July 1st and runs through June 29^th.
2. Review Period. The Pastor, in collaboration with the GIFT Parish Endowment Committee, will review all applications as they are received. Each proposal will be evaluated based on its alignment with parish mission, vision, values, potential impact on pastoral year themes or initiatives and feasibility.
3. Notification of Decisions. Applicants will typically be notified of the decision regarding their funding request within 1-2 weeks. Depending on available funds, some projects may receive partial funding, while others may not be funded. Applicants are encouraged to reapply in the future if their project is not selected due to lack of funds. Applications may not be selected for reasons other than available funding, and in such cases, we encourage you to review your submission to ensure that the project or event is clearly defined, planned to occur within the current fiscal year and aligns closely with our parish's mission, vision, values and the themes or initiatives for our pastoral year. We appreciate your understanding and are happy to provide guidance for resubmission.
4. Parish Announcement. At the conclusion of a project, GIFT Fund recipients are requested to complete a Project Feedback Form. Project overviews and outcomes will be shared on the parish website as Case Studies and snippets from project feedback may be used in the bulletin, Annual Giving Impact Report or other parish materials. Sharing these highlights will bring awareness to the GIFT Fund and foster excitement and awareness about the positive changes GIFT Fund initiatives will bring to the parish and community.

A: The current balance of the endowment fund is reported annually in November, when the parish publishes its financial reports. Available GIFT money for disbursement is determined each year by the Finance Council in consultation with the Pastor and Operations Director. It is based on the current interest earned by the Parish Endowment Fund, ensuring that the principal amount is not depleted. The amount available for disbursement will be announced to the parish each year in August or September, and updates will be provided as projects are approved and funded.

A: No, funds do not roll forward. Grant requests are only funded up to the maximum amount outlined each year by the Finance Council to ensure the sustainability of this valuable parish resource.

A: The GIFT Fund was initially conceived to assist ministries in carrying out the mission and vision of the parish without additionally taxing volunteers to fundraise to carry out this work. That said, all applications to the GIFT Fund will be reviewed and vetted based on the criteria of how closely the request and projected outcomes align with the parish mission, vision and values. While the primary focus is on supporting ministries, individual applications that demonstrate a strong alignment with these criteria will also be considered.

A: Yes, multiple applications and funding approvals are possible, even in the same fiscal year, provided projects meet the outlined criteria and funds are available. Each request will be evaluated on its own merits, considering the projected impact and how closely that aligns with the parish's mission, vision and values.

A: No, some requests may not be funded even if money is available. The Parish Council Executive Committee reviews each application's projected impact and funds projects that align with the parish's mission, vision and values. Specifically, projects should lead people to an encounter with Jesus Christ and reflect the love of Christ into the world. Applications that do not align with these criteria or are not clearly defined may be rejected or returned for additional information.

A: No, the Parish Council GIFT Committee may approve a lesser or partial amount. This decision could be due to a number of factors including, but not limited to, number of requests, available funds or perceived availability of other funding sources. Reasoning for partial funding will be clearly explained in the response.

Description: The Marriage & Family Ministry conceived the "Mass & Meal" project, inviting newly-engaged and newly-married couples, along with families who recently baptized young children, to celebrate Mass followed by a meal with our clergy. This event aimed to strengthen community bonds by creating a welcoming environment for young families and new members of our parish.

Objectives

• Foster Community: Create a comfortable and inviting space for young families to connect with each other and with our clergy.
• Enhance Parish Engagement: Encourage newly-engaged and newly-married couples to become more active in parish life.
• Support Family Faith: Provide an opportunity for families to grow in faith together and establish a sense of belonging within the parish.

Implementation

The Mass & Meal event was planned to coincide with World Marriage Day, making it a significant and memorable occasion. Invitations were sent out to the target groups, and preparations were made to ensure a family-friendly atmosphere, including the setup of a special "kid's table" with activity bags for young children.

Key Elements:

• Mass Celebration: The event began with the 5pm Mass, where the homily touched on the importance of community.
• Shared Meal: Following the Mass, attendees gathered in Shea Hall for a meal, providing an informal setting for fellowship and connection.
• Family-Friendly Setup: A "kid's table" with activity bags for each child was included, ensuring that parents could enjoy the event while their children were entertained.

Impact

The Mass & Meal initiative significantly contributed to our parish's goal of fostering a welcoming and engaging environment for young families. The presence of our priests and ministers during the meal allowed for meaningful interactions and strengthened the sense of community.

Key Metrics:

• Attendance: Approximately 50 attendees, including 12 young children.
• Positive Feedback: Attendees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to connect with others and enjoy a meal with clergy.
• Increased Engagement: The event led to increased participation in subsequent parish activities by the newly-engaged and newly-married couples who attended.

Conclusion

The Mass & Meal initiative exemplifies the impactful projects funded by the GIFT Fund. By bringing together young families and newlyweds, this project has fostered a sense of belonging and community within our parish. The success of this event underscores the importance of such initiatives in nurturing the spiritual and social well-being of our parishioners.

We look forward to continuing this tradition and exploring new ways to support and engage our parish community through the GIFT Fund.

Description: The Men's Group organized the annual Holy Thursday Visitation of Seven Churches by renting a small coach bus, allowing parishioners to extend their journey beyond local churches. This initiative enabled participants to visit various churches in the city, providing a unique opportunity to deepen their spiritual reflection during the Holy Paschal Triduum and to enjoy fellowship along the way.

Objectives

• Enhance Spiritual Experience: Provide a meaningful and reflective Holy Thursday experience by visiting seven churches and spending time at the altars of repose.
• Promote Fellowship: Foster a sense of community and fellowship among parishioners during this sacred journey.
• Increase Accessibility: Make it easier for parishioners to participate in the visitation without the constraints of driving and parking.

Implementation

The Visitation of Seven Churches was planned to ensure a smooth and enriching experience for all participants. The Men's Group coordinated with various churches in the city, arranged for a comfortable coach bus and managed the logistics to ensure a timely and meaningful journey.

Key Elements:

• Transportation: A small coach bus was rented to accommodate 30 parishioners, ensuring comfort and convenience.
• Church Visitations: The group visited seven churches—St. Clement, St. Michael, St. John Cantius, St. Stanislaw Koska, Holy Trinity, St. Hedwig, St. Mary of the Angels—with each stop providing time for prayer and reflection.
• Fellowship: The journey included praying the rosary and other opportunities for parishioners to build connections, enhancing the communal aspect of the event.

Impact

The Visitation of Seven Churches had a profound impact on the participants, enriching their Holy Paschal Triduum experience through spiritual reflection and fellowship.

Key Metrics:

• Full Participation: All 30 seats on the coach bus were filled, demonstrating strong interest and engagement from the parish community.
• Waitlist Implementation: Due to the high demand, a waitlist was created, indicating the popularity and success of the event.
• Positive Feedback: Participants provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, highlighting the spiritual enrichment and fellowship they experienced during the journey.

Conclusion

The Visitation of Seven Churches initiative, funded by the GIFT Fund, exemplifies our commitment to enhancing the spiritual and communal life of our parishioners. The success of this event underscores the importance of providing opportunities for deep spiritual reflection and community building.

We are grateful for the support of the GIFT Fund, which made this enriching experience possible, and we look forward to continuing to offer impactful programs that benefit our parish community.

Description: Young adults from Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish and nearby parishes brought a Theology on Tap Summer Speaker Series to OLBS, using GIFT Funds to cover speaker fees and refreshments. This initiative provided a platform for young adults to gather, discuss faith-related topics, and engage in lively conversations about living out their Catholic identity in today’s world.

Objectives

Faith Formation: Offer engaging and practical discussions on living a Catholic life, led by knowledgeable speakers from our Catholic community.

Community Building: Foster a sense of fellowship among young adults within our parish and neighboring communities.

Revitalization: Rejuvenate the Young Adult Ministry that the Archdiocese of Chicago is no longer able to support in hopes of attracting and inspiring a new generation of participants.

Implementation

The Theology on Tap series was strategically organized to maximize engagement and impact. Held on Wednesday evenings throughout June, the series featured a diverse lineup of speakers who addressed relevant topics in an approachable and engaging manner. Refreshments were provided to create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

Key Elements:

Speaker Series: Expert speakers—Dcn Tom Biegel, our own Fr. Dan Folwaczny, Sr. Laura Toth, and OLBS Marriage & Family Ministers—were invited to discuss practical aspects of living the Catholic faith—Spiritual Warfare, Touch Grass: Natural Virtues for a Digital Life, Mental Health & the Catholic Church, and Discernment in Dating.

Refreshments: Funds were partially used to purchase refreshments, creating the social aspect of the gatherings that Theology on Tap is known for.

Promotion: The series was promoted within our parish and neighboring communities on social media and in print to attract a wide audience.

Impact

The 2024 Theology on Tap series was a remarkable success, with young adults from our parish and neighboring communities filling the fellowship hall on Wednesday evenings in June.

Key Metrics:

Strong Attendance: The first night saw an attendance of thirty-five young adults, the largest crowd for Theology on Tap in years, according to an organizer.

Positive Feedback: Participants praised the engaging speakers and the opportunity to discuss faith in a social setting.

Continued Engagement: The series sparked interest in further faith-based activities for young adults, encouraging continued participation and community involvement.

Conclusion

The Theology on Tap initiative, funded by the GIFT Fund, has successfully revitalized a valuable faith formation series for adults ages 18-39. By providing engaging discussions and a welcoming environment, the series has strengthened the faith and fellowship of young adults in our parish and beyond. We are grateful for the support of the GIFT Fund, which made this initiative possible, and we look forward to continuing to offer impactful programs that benefit young adults in our parish community.

Description: The Parish Lenten Mission, partially funded by the GIFT Fund, included inviting Fr. Tim Anastos, a dynamic Eucharistic speaker, hosting the Eucharistic Miracles of the World exhibit, creating handouts and materials for attendees, and providing hospitality with refreshments. This mission aimed to offer a space for community and spiritual renewal in preparation for the Sacred Paschal Triduum.

Objectives

• Spiritual Renewal: Provide an opportunity for parishioners to deepen their faith and prepare spiritually for the Sacred Paschal Triduum.
• Community Building: Foster a sense of community through shared spiritual experiences and hospitality.
• Educational Enrichment: Enhance understanding and appreciation of the real presence of Jesus Christ, body, blood, soul and divinity in the Eucharist through speakers, the celebration of Mass and the Eucharistic Miracles of the World exhibit.

Implementation

The Parish Lenten Mission was carefully planned to maximize both spiritual and communal benefits. The event spanned three nights and included a combination of engaging talks, an inspiring exhibit and warm hospitality.

Key Elements:

• Mission Speaker: Eucharistic speaker, Fr. Tim Anastos, was invited to open the Mission by speaking about The Eucharist–Abiding Presence. (Please note that in addition to the GIFT Fund Grant, a free-will offering and permission for Fr. Tim to sell merchandise supported his speaker fee.) Fr. Dan followed, speaking about The Eucharist–Healing Wounds and Fr. Louis finished by celebrating a Healing Mass.
• Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit: The exhibit was displayed throughout the week leading up to the Mission, allowing parishioners and community members to explore at their own pace. (Please note, a free-will offering also helped augment the donation made to the Eucharistic Miracles of the World Exhibit.)
• Handouts and Leave-Behinds: Educational materials and handouts were prepared to reinforce the mission's themes and provide attendees with resources to continue their spiritual journey.
• Hospitality: Refreshments were provided following the Healing Mass, creating a welcoming atmosphere for attendees to gather and reflect. (It should be noted that a generous parishioner anonymously donated food for hospitality, in addition to the grant from the GIFT Fund.)

Impact

The Parish Lenten Mission created a powerful space for spiritual growth and community building, significantly enhancing the parish’s Lenten observance.

Key Metrics:

• Exhibit Attendance: The Eucharistic Miracles of the World exhibit was visited by numerous parishioners and community members throughout the week, drawing interest from neighboring communities.
• Mission Attendance: Approximately 150 people attended each of the three nights of the Mission, demonstrating strong community interest and engagement.
• Positive Feedback: Attendees expressed appreciation for the spiritual depth and hospitality of the event, highlighting the impact of the speakers and the exhibit.

Conclusion

The Parish Lenten Mission, funded by the GIFT Fund, successfully provided a meaningful and enriching experience for our parish community. By combining inspirational talks, a compelling exhibit, and warm hospitality, the event fostered spiritual renewal and community connection in preparation for the Sacred Paschal Triduum.

We extend our gratitude to the GIFT Fund for making this transformative event possible and look forward to continuing to offer impactful programs that benefit our parish community.

Description: The Women's Club organized a Wine 'n Paint Night held in the parish fellowship hall to keep costs manageable. A GIFT Fund grant was requested to cover the majority of expenses, instructors, supplies and refreshment. This event aimed to provide a relaxed and enjoyable environment for the women of our parish to connect and build community.

Objectives

• Foster Community: Create a welcoming and fun environment for women of the parish to get to know each other better.
• Reduce Barriers: Make the event accessible to a larger number of women by significantly lowering the registration fee through the use of GIFT Funds.
• Encourage Engagement: Involve women from various parts of the parish, including ministry leaders, school teachers, parents and even some newcomers.

Implementation

The Wine 'n Paint Night was planned to maximize participation and enjoyment. Held in the parish fellowship hall, the event featured professional instructors who guided attendees in painting festive summer-themed chargers. Refreshments, including wine, were provided to enhance the social atmosphere.

Impact

The Wine 'n Paint Night successfully created a vibrant space for community building, attracting a diverse group of women from across the parish.

Key Metrics:

• Strong Attendance: A total of 45 women participated in the event, reflecting a wide cross-section of our parish and school community.
• Positive Feedback: Participants reported having a great time and appreciated the opportunity to connect with others while engaging in a creative activity.
• New Connections: The event helped to integrate new faces into the parish community, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion, and hopefully inviting women to actively participate in Women’s Club.

Conclusion

The Wine 'n Paint Night, funded by the GIFT Parish Endowment Fund, exemplifies how targeted support can foster community and enhance parish life. By making the event accessible to a broad group of women, the initiative successfully created a space for connection, creativity, and camaraderie.

We are grateful for the GIFT Fund’s support, which made this joyful and enriching event possible, and we look forward to continuing to offer impactful programs that provide opportunities for women in the parish and greater community to grow in faith, fellowship and service.

Description: Women's Club hosted BINGO Fiesta, an entertaining Cinco de Mayo-themed afternoon event designed for all members of the family—from grandparents to young children. A nominal cost was charged to families, with the GIFT Fund supporting the purchase of snacks and prizes. The event aimed to provide a fun, multi-generational fellowship experience, culminating in the 5pm Mass so everyone was able to fulfill their Sunday obligation.

Objectives

• Foster Multi-Generational Fellowship: Create an event that appeals to and includes parishioners of all ages, promoting family togetherness and community bonding.
• Provide Affordable Entertainment: Keep costs low for families, ensuring broad accessibility and participation.
• Encourage Worship Participation: Seamlessly integrate the event with the 5pm Mass, making it fun for families to attend Mass together.

Implementation

BINGO Fiesta was orchestrated to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive experience for all participants. Held in the parish fellowship hall, the event featured a festive Cinco de Mayo theme, complete with themed snacks and engaging BINGO games with great prizes.

Key Elements:

• Themed Decorations and Snacks: The fellowship hall was decorated in a festive Cinco de Mayo theme, and delicious nachos and churros were provided as snacks, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.
• BINGO Games and Prizes: BINGO games were organized for all ages, with prizes funded by the GIFT Fund to keep the event lively, engaging and fun.
• Integrated Worship: The event was scheduled to conclude with the 5pm Mass, demonstrating the beauty of attending Mass as a family.

Impact

The BINGO Fiesta successfully brought together parishioners of all ages for an afternoon of fun, food and fellowship, capped off with the celebration of Mass.

Outcomes

The BINGO Fiesta was a resounding success, with families filling Shea Hall with shouts of BINGO, and then packing the pews for Mass.

Key Metrics:

• Strong Attendance: The fellowship hall was packed with families, demonstrating the event's broad appeal and success in attracting a diverse group of parishioners.
• Active Participation: Families enthusiastically participated in the BINGO games, with many taking turns shouting "BINGO!" and celebrating each other’s wins.
• Positive Feedback: Attendees praised the event for its fun, inclusive nature and appreciated the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment followed by Mass as a family.

Conclusion

BINGO Fiesta, supported by the GIFT Fund, exemplifies the fund's power to create inclusive, multi-generational fellowship events that strengthen our parish community. By providing a fun and affordable afternoon of entertainment and seamlessly integrating worship, the event fostered community bonding and reinforced the importance of family and faith.

We are grateful for the GIFT Fund’s support, which made this delightful event possible, and we look forward to continuing to offer impactful programs that benefit women and our parish community.