Why are we conducting a Capital Campaign for a new Gym/ Parish Center? Simply put, the Monsignor Connolly Parish Hall is beyond its useful lifespan and is inadequate to serve the needs of today’s community. We have witnessed tremendous growth in the number of young people, through BT Sports, that use the facility daily, and for decades, our community has desired a new building that will allow us to serve all members of our area better. What is the estimated cost of the new building? As of January 2023, the estimated cost to demolish the current building and complete the new project is $5 million. Has the Breezy Point Cooperative approved the project? Yes. The Breezy Point Cooperative supports the plan, and the Parish has received its endorsement. Has the Diocese of Brooklyn approved this project? Yes. The Diocese of Brooklyn has authorized the project. When completed, this will be the first new Gym/ Parish Center built in the Diocese in decades. How far along is the planning of the project? For the last 16 months, Fr. Gelfant and a Building Committee, consisting of parish and community leaders, have met regularly to review the scope, design, and concept for the building. Three Architectural Firms were engaged, and after a thorough process, one firm has been retained. At the time of writing, we are developing engineering studies and floor plans.
Blessed Trinity Catholic Parish
A Campaign For The Point – Frequently Asked Questions
If all 2,500 households in Breezy Point give $2,000, won’t we be successful? In theory, if every household participated at that level, we would hit our goal. Unfortunately, the reality is that not everyone will participate, and not everyone’s financial situation is equal. We will be asking every registered household to participate, but if this project is to be successful, it will require individuals and families to make stretch, sacrificial, multi-year commitments.
Why are 5-year pledges encouraged? A multi-year pledge allows donors to the campaign to have a greater impact on the new Gym/ Parish Center by extending their pledge payments over time. Donors will have the opportunity to make reoccurring payments on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual frequency. The number of total funds pledged will allow Blessed Trinity to take out the loan required to break ground promptly, and pledge payments over the next five (5) years will repay that loan.
What if I am not ready to begin my payments just yet? That is okay – while an initial payment is encouraged, it is not required. On your pledge card, you may indicate a preferred starting month (within the next five years) to begin your pledge payments.
Can I pay my pledge electronically via credit card? Yes! Electronic pledge payments are an option for all those who participate in the “A Campaign For The Point” campaign. Please check the box on your pledge card that says “Please check here if you wish to pay your pledge electronically. You will receive an email with instructions”. Make sure to clearly provide the email on your pledge card so we can send you instructions to set up your e-giving account to make your pledge payments automatically online.
If I do not wish to pay my pledge online electronically, how will I make my pledge payments? Regular pledge statements will be e-mailed to you, according to the payment fulfillment schedule you indicated on your pledge card. These pledge statements will include instructions for you to mail a check for your pledge payment to the Blessed Trinity parish office to be processed.
Is my pledge to the “A Campaign For The Point” tax-deductible? Yes! All pledge payments are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please consult your financial advisor/ accountant to learn how making a charitable gift can be most advantageous to your personal financial situation.
Can I make payments via stock, or through an individual retirement account such as a 401(K)? Yes. For information, please contact the Parish Office for more ways to give.
What if I need to change my pledge later? We are aware that one’s circumstances can change over a five-year period. Please remember that all pledges are non-legally binding and can be altered at any time. A pledge will not be passed onto one’s family in event of death, illness, or some other occurrence.
How can I submit my pledge card/letter ofr intent? There are several ways to return your gift decision regarding your participation in the campaign. If you were met personally by a volunteer, you may return your completed pledge card directly to them. You may also place your pledge in a sealed envelope in the offertory basket during Mass, clearly marked for the attention of Fr. Gelfant/A Campaign For The Point. Alternatively, you can drop off or mail your completed pledge card to the parish office.