How Transparency Transformed a Roof Appeal into a $240,000 Success

When Parishioners Understand the Need, They Respond

The Challenge

When Pax Christi began experiencing roof leaks, the initial hope was to make small repairs and delay a full replacement. But after consulting two roofing companies, it became clear that repairs would only waste money. As Parish Administrator Jill Olson explained, “It became very apparent that we should not invest further monies in repairs.” The parish needed a major roof replacement — and a clear, confident way to communicate the need.

The Solution

The leadership team first brainstormed together to determine the best way to communicate the urgency and scope of the project. With a unified plan in place, they used clear, transparent messaging: photos of leaks, drawings from the roofing company, weekly fundraising thermometers in the bulletin and gathering space, and regular pulpit updates. When they first launched the campaign, they had the Director of Maintenance speak at all Masses to explain the situation firsthand. Fr. Sauer expressed confidence from the start: “This parish is very generous,” he told parishioners, trusting they would respond once they understood the real need. Jill added, “We have such a great team. We brainstormed, brought in those closest to the concern, and communicated consistently.”

The Outcome

The parish responded with remarkable generosity. In a period of several months, Pax Christi raised $240,000 allowing them to move forward with the needed roof replacement. The success was rooted in clarity, teamwork, and trust. As Jill reflected on advice for other parishes in similar situations, “Have a great team. Have the skeptic in the room, but also the optimist. Bring in those closest to the concern.” The campaign has become a model for how honest communication and strong relationships can inspire a parish to meet a critical need together.

"As a Pax Christi parishioner, I witnessed firsthand what faithful, transparent stewardship can accomplish. When Father John Sauer and our parish family set out to replace our roof, they didn’t simply ask for donations — they shared with us the specific need (and it’s urgency), a clear goal, and a vision for what each gift would accomplish. The response was nothing short of inspiring. In a remarkably short time, the funds were raised, not because people were asked to give, but because they were given the opportunity to make a purposeful and meaningful contribution. Directed giving works because it answers the question every donor quietly asks: does my gift truly matter? At the Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota, we believe it does. The Pax Christi community proved it. When people know their gift has a face and a purpose, they don’t just donate, they become part of the mission." — Jeff Snider, Pax Christi Parishioner and Board Member of the Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota