Whether your next fundraising effort lasts a few weeks or runs for years, reaching the top of that proverbial "goal thermometer" is never easy. Timing, feasibility, and donor capacity all matter, yet one component that is often under‑planned in fundraising is promotion.

Today’s parishioners are buried in noise: emails, Facebook posts, texts, TV and radio ads, notifications, and endless digital clutter. If you want your fundraising message to be seen — and acted on — you must make it stand out in a blizzard of competing content.

The good news? With a clear plan and consistent messaging, your parish can reach people where they already are and inspire them to participate joyfully.

This blog offers 21 ready‑to‑use promotion tactics you can apply to the Catholic Ministries Appeal or any parish fundraising initiative.

Start With a Simple Communications Plan

Before promoting anything, outline:

• Campaign name: Something simple and specific that describes the need briefly. Don't feel pressured to overthink this as something flashy. Clear is better than fancy.
• Project overview: What you're looking to raise to use for what
• Why it matters: What will this project improve or help? Why is that important? NOTE: if you're doing a large capital campaign, plan to take time - weeks, months, to thoughtfully plan out an entire case statement. Ask me for tips and tricks.
• Key messages (both the “why” and the practical details, including what costs are needed for what. Parishioners support what they understand)
• Where you will promote (bulletin, pulpit, email, social, school newsletter, etc.)
• When each message will run (down to the day and time)
• Who is responsible for each step

A sample promotion plan:

• Campaign name: Restore Our Chapel
• Project: The parish hopes to raise $10,600 to restore and repaint the small chapel adjacent to the sanctuary. The space has peeling paint, outdated lighting, and worn flooring. The project will create a more reverent, beautiful place for private prayer and Eucharistic devotion.
• Specific Goal: Increase the total number of donors compared to the last time we raised for capital funds (in 2022) and fundraise $10,600 by October 31,2026
• Why It Matters:
  • Enhances the beauty and dignity of the space where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved
  • Encourages parishioners to spend time in prayer
  • Supports the parish’s Eucharistic Revival efforts
  • Demonstrates our care for sacred spaces, showing our community and children we are dedicated to the future of the faith
• Campaign Duration: June 1 to October 31, 2026
• Key Messages:
  • “Help us restore a sacred space for prayer.”
  • “Your gift will create a more beautiful home for the Eucharist.”
  • “Every dollar brings us closer to a renewed chapel for our parish family.”
  • Investment breakdown: $1,000 demo/cleanout/dumpster, $2,200 for new commercial flooring & installation, $2,600 for paint & labor, $3,200 for light fixtures and electrical; $1,100 new statue; $500 for 5% contingency
  • Links to photographs or estimates - show the needs visually is powerful!
• Simple Four Week Communication Plan:
  • Week 1: Launch announcement at all Masses + bulletin insert + email
  • Week 2: Social media posts + school newsletter mention
  • Week 3: Midpoint update + visible thermometer in gathering space
  • Week 4: Final push + donor match challenge
  • Week 5: Celebrate we reached our goal + thank each donor
• ALTERNATIVE: Five Month Communication Plan
  • Month 1: Launch and awareness: Introduce the project, explain the need and build excitement
  • Month 2: Education and storytelling: Help parishioners understand why the project matters, lots of photos printed or projected large to see details
  • Month 3: Midpoint momentum: Show progress and invite participation
  • Month 4: Personal invitations and matching challenge: Encourage deeper engagement and larger gifts
  • Month 5: Final push & celebration: Finish strong and thank donors publicly.
• Tactics - update this based on how long your campaign is. If you expect to ask for 5 months, please don't post about it on social media every day :) Think about what information you'd like to receive.
  • Sunday bulletin mention (every week)
  • Pulpit announcement (launch weekend + midpoint + final push)
  • Email to parishioners (launch + midpoint + final week)
  • Social media posts (2–3 per week)
  • School newsletter mention (monthly)
  • Posters in gathering space (all month)
• Project owners - Jan will write all of the words for every format. John will type up and publish on social. Father will put into bulletin and present at Mass on scheduled days. Jan will also ask someone from youth group to snap a few photos to add to posts.

Sample Progress Updates:

• “We’re 40% of the way to our goal!”
• “A generous parish family will match gifts up to $1,000 this week.”
• “Only $1,850 left to fully fund the chapel restoration!”

Please Don't Forget: A gift tax acknowledgment is required. A real thank you - call, note, handwritten paragraph on a tax acknowledgement - is what it takes to build your community.

If you'd like me to take a look at your plan and provide suggestions - yes, I'd love to! No cost and I can usually reply in 1-2 business days. Happy to help! ewilliams@catholicfsmn.org

 

21 Promotion Tactics for a Successful Parish Campaign

Once your plan is started, choose five or more of the tactics below in order to build out the details of your plan. The goal is simple: reach your donors where they already are. If you only communicate in the bulletin, and a family misses Mass for three weeks of a five week campaign due to illness or kids’ activities, you’ve lost your window.

1. A Visible Thermometer in a High‑Traffic Area

People love seeing progress — it builds momentum.

Where: Gathering space, school hallway, parish office. BONUS: Also post a photo of this progress on your social media page, bulletin, website or other places you communicate once per week.
Sample Copy:
“We’re 42% of the way to our goal! Help us reach 100% and support the ministries that serve our families.”

2. Weekly Pulpit Announcements

A brief, heartfelt message from the pastor is still the most effective motivator. Parishioners respect their priest and want to know if the parish needs something. From all of the conversations I've had I can tell you it is safe to assume that parishioners know you'll only ask if you really need help. 

When possible, include specific stories of the positive impact the gift will have. People want to give to good causes, not just bricks.

Sample Copy:
“Thank you for your generosity so far. Your gift to the Catholic Ministries Appeal directly supports our seminarians, Catholic Charities, and parish ministries across the diocese. Did you know that we had over 100 newly Baptized in our diocese this past Easter with the help of CMAs funding RCIA efforts?” Swap this out for a different mini story of the impact of the Catholic Ministries Appeal every week or two!

Sample Story:

“Earlier this week, I stopped into our little chapel late in the afternoon. I wasn’t expecting anyone to be there — it was quiet, the lights were dim, and I had just planned to say a quick prayer before heading to my next meeting. But as I walked in, I noticed a man sitting in the very back corner. His clothes were worn, his hands were rough, and he looked like he had been carrying a heavy burden for a long time. I didn’t want to disturb him, so I knelt down a few pews ahead.

After a few minutes, he quietly approached me. He said, ‘Father, I don’t have much. But I come here because this is the one place I feel peace. I talk to Jesus here. I ask Him to help me keep going.’

Then he added something that stayed with me: ‘I’m grateful this chapel is open. It’s the only place I feel like I belong.’

That moment reminded me that this chapel isn’t just a room. It’s a refuge. A place where the lonely, the struggling, the overwhelmed — and all of us — can come before the Lord and find rest.

When we talk about restoring this space, we’re not just talking about paint or lighting or flooring. We’re talking about caring for a place where real people encounter real grace. A place where someone who has nothing can still feel rich in God’s presence.

This chapel serves our entire community, even those we may never see. And that’s why this project matters.

Please pray over what you and your family are able to sacrifice to refresh our beautiful chapel.”

3. Bulletin Inserts or Half‑Page Features

Bulletins are still widely read so don't forget your best real estate for communications.

Sample Copy:
“Your gift stays local. Last year, our parish received ___ in direct ministry support through the CMA.”

4. Email Campaigns With Clear Calls to Action

Short, visual, and linked directly to the giving page. If you don't have an online giving page, explain to parishioners how they can easily give. The less steps the better.

Sample Copy:
“Your gift today strengthens the ministries that strengthen our parish. Give online in 30 seconds.”

5. Social Media Countdown Posts

Use a consistent graphic template and post monthly or weekly - depending upon how long your campaign is. Think about how often you'd like to have an update without being annoying. If you have a 6 month campaign, that might be 2-3 times in month one and six; and just once per month in months 2-5. If it is a 4 week campaign, that might be two posts in week 1; and weekly there after. Don't forget a thank you post or two when the campaign is finished!

Sample Copy:
“We’re in the final 10 days! Help us reach our goal and support the ministries that serve our diocese/parish.

Visuals and Formats:

Social media is a great place to experiment with different types of messages: a story, a statistic, a construction budget, a combination of all. Or with different types of formats: stories, videos, photos, text only. You can find out what works well and use the best messages in your bulletin. 

6. Testimonial Videos or Quotes

People give to people and to impact. They want to know what will change or improve with their donation. Tell them!

Sample Copy:
“Because of CMA support, our youth were able to attend Steubenville for the first time.”

7. School, Parish or Cemetery Newsletter Mentions

Readers of your existing newsletters or emails are usually already engaged in the parish and would be happy to hear what is new. Tell them and let them get involved.

Sample Copy:
“The CMA helps fund XYZ faith formation across our diocese — including programs that support our school families. For instance, through CMA funds, the part of salaries of the Totus Tuus missionaries are paid as well as curriculum costs, leaving our parish and families only having to pay for the remainder with camp fees."

8. A “Why I Give” Story Series

Feature your parishioners of different ages and backgrounds. You can use quotes, photos, videos - whatever is easiest. Be sure to get their permission before including anyone.

Sample Copy:
“I give because the Church was there for my family when we needed it most.”

9. Personalized Letters From the Pastor

Especially effective for mid‑campaign boosts.

Sample Copy:
“Your support makes a real difference in the lives of families across our diocese. Would you consider a gift this week?”

10. A Final‑Week “Matching Challenge”

If a donor is willing, match gifts up to a certain amount.

Sample Copy:
“A generous parish family will match all gifts up to $5,000 this week. Double your impact by giving now!”

11. Announce Milestones Publicly

Celebrate progress — it encourages others to join.

Sample Copy:
“We just passed 75% of our goal! Thank you for your generosity.”

12. Use Parish Events as Touchpoints

Fish fries, coffee & donuts, school concerts, and festivals are perfect opportunities to thank donors and share a progress update.

Sample Copy:
"With your generous donations so far, we've raise half of our goal and have begun to start scheduling our contractors for the fall. If you haven't yet given, we ask you to consider today."
“Stop by our table to learn how the CMA supports ministries right here in our parish.”

 

13. “Ministry Spotlight Weekend”

Dedicate one weekend to highlighting the ministries supported by the campaign. Feature short testimonies, photos, or a brief ministry fair after Mass.

Sample Copy: “Stop by after Mass to meet the volunteers and ministries your gift supports — see firsthand the impact your generosity makes.”

14. Text Message Reminder (Through Flocknote or Parish App)

A short, well‑timed text can reach parishioners who don’t read email or social media.

Sample Copy: “We’re close to our goal! A small gift today helps us finish strong. Give in 30 seconds at: [link].”

15. “Sponsor a Day” or “Sponsor a Need” Board

Break the project into small, tangible pieces parishioners can “sponsor” — a day of ministry, a piece of equipment, a portion of a project.

Sample Copy: “Sponsor one day of youth ministry for $25 — or choose any amount that fits your family. Every gift moves us closer to our goal.”

16. Homily Tie‑In (One Weekend Only)

A brief, mission‑aligned connection in the homily can deepen understanding and inspire participation.

Sample Copy: “Today’s Gospel reminds us that small acts of generosity build the Kingdom. Our parish campaign is one way we live that out together.”

17. “Behind the Scenes” Photo or Video Series

Show the real people, spaces, or ministries that will benefit from the campaign. Authentic visuals build trust and emotional connection. Put youth groups to work on graphics and presentations - this creates engagement with youth and inspires older generations to give to the future of the Church.

Sample Copy: “Here’s where your gift makes a difference — a look inside the chapel we hope to restore. Imagine what this space could become with your help.”

 

Absolutely — here are five more strong, parish‑friendly promotion tactics, each with a ready‑to‑use copy example. These round out your list with ideas that are simple, doable, and effective for Catholic audiences.

18. QR Codes Everywhere

Place QR codes on pew cards, posters, bulletins, and school folders. Make giving as easy as scanning a phone. The QR codes can click through to more information about the project or a place where people can give online.

Sample Copy:
“Scan to give in 30 seconds — your gift helps us reach our goal!”

19. “Did You Know?” Fact Series

Share small, surprising facts about the project or ministry. These work well in bulletins, social media, and email footers.

Sample Copy:
“Did you know? More than 200 parishioners visit our chapel each month for quiet prayer. Your gift helps restore this sacred space.”

20. Parish-Wide Prayer Intention

Invite the whole parish to pray for the success of the campaign. This builds unity and keeps the effort top‑of‑mind.

Sample Copy:
“This week, we invite you to pray for the success of our chapel restoration project — that it may draw many hearts closer to Christ.”

21. “Behind the Budget” Transparency Graphic

Create a simple visual showing how the funds will be used. Transparency builds trust and increases giving.

Sample Copy:
“Here’s exactly how your gift will be used: 40% lighting, 35% flooring, 25% paint and repairs. Every dollar has a purpose.”

Final Thoughts

Promotion isn’t about pressure. It’s about visibility, clarity, and consistency. When your parish communicates across multiple channels, with a unified message and a clear invitation, donors feel informed, inspired, and ready to participate.

Choose five or more of these tactics, build a simple communications plan, and watch your campaign gain momentum.

If you’d like help creating templates, graphics, or messaging for your parish, the Catholic Foundation is always here to support you. Give me an email or call: ewilliams@catholicfsmn.org 507-218-4098. --Elizabeth

Catholic Ministries Appeal 2026

In case you haven't heard, the Diocese of Winona-Rochester will process all 2026 Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA) donations, as we at the Catholic Foundation shift our focus to expanded services for local parishes. Learn more about these new paths to Catholic stewardship here. 

Your Catholic Ministries Appeal gift can be completed in one of a few ways:

1. Give online here through Give Central
2. Return your pledge envelope to your parish
3. Send your donation in the return envelope included in your mailing packet or in an envelope made out to the following address

Diocese of Winona-Rochester
Catholic Ministries Appeal
PO Box 148
Kensington, CT 06037-0148

Looking for ministry stories to help promote within your parish? All CMA questions may be directed to Mark Dockery at mdockery@dowr.org or 507‑361‑3364.