Recession, Depression and a Lesson

Few among us today have not experienced the impact of the economic downward spiral of the past two years. Unemployment continues to stay at record levels, housing prices continue to tumble and many, if not most, retirement portfolios resemble crash sites - they are frightening to see. If we haven't ourselves suffered reduced income and financial turmoil, we need only contemplate our family members or our neighbors down the street to witness the situation. No way - or need - to avoid the obvious - times are tough.

For those of us in the business of development and philanthropy, these economic times bring great challenges. Organizations of every sort are fearful. They are reluctant to engage in fund raising appeals and are particularly anxious over the thoughts of a capital campaign. In our 24 hour news cycle, the negative news rebounds to us like a bad chili hot dog - it keeps coming back and is less welcome on each visit.

It never ceases to astonish folks, however, when I tell them, in response to inquiries, that we've actually had success in our recently completed capital campaigns. Not just the quiet success of climbing over our goals, but the banner headline enthusiasm of SHATTERING GOALS! In suburban Columbus a parish raises $4.6 million on a $3.25 million goal! An inner city Cleveland parish reaches 130 % of its goal! Yes, even in these dispiriting times!

This is where you might expect a commercial for how brilliantly we conducted the campaigns; no, while I'm quite proud to have led these organizations to success, it is not about me, or the firm or the plan. It's about trust!

If you've reached into your pocket or purse today you've had occasion to see the phrase, In God We Trust." We all repeat these words at some point in our lives, but the central question is do we really believe it? Consider the parable of the sparrow. How many times have we heard this Gospel passage without fully contemplating its message?

These successful parish efforts came about because of trust! Certainly there was much planning, lots of study, hard work and substantive generosity. Also, and very importantly, there was demonstrated actual need for the fruits of these campaigns - and there was the history of good stewardship to support the effort. However, without the trust that God would provide for us, all would have been lost. To quote Saint Augustine, "Trust the past to God's mercy, the present to God's love and the future to God's providence."

Fear and anxiety are understandable reactions to today's economic and societal situations. They are not, however, strategies for success. Whether we are working as part of a group, a parish or as individuals, we need to focus on the ultimate goal. We can only reach that goal by grasping and embracing the notion of trust. I encourage each of you to step forward boldly and with courage. If there are authentic needs, then you need to address them. Do the homework required, but never lose sight of the role of the Master Builder - Jesus Christ - when planning our next step.

Let me close with the words of Saint Padre Pio, " Pray, trust and don't worry!"