January 6, 2023
After years of hard work, careful planning and plenty of prayer, we are pleased to announce that Our Lady of Lourdes and Saint John Vianney are moving forward together with a capital campaign to fund the construction of a new Catholic school in northeast Bettendorf. The decision to move forward was made in collaboration with the project steering committee and the parish councils of both parishes. Ultimately though, the decision was made by you, our faith family. During our recent planning study, most respondents indicated they would financially support the effort to construct a new school.
Our campaign’s theme is One Faith – One Family – One Future. This is fitting for our two parish communities and this campaign because it reflects our journey together in ministry to the Bettendorf Catholic community and the vision of our two parishes eventually becoming one.
In keeping with that theme and vision, we are also happy to announce that Brad and Andrea Boeye from Our Lady of Lourdes and Nick and Jessica Palczynski from St. John Vianney have agreed to team as General Co-Chairs of the campaign. Working with Fr. Rich, Fr. Jason, and the Steier Group, they will give guidance and drive the overall effort.
Even though the capital campaign is underway, it will likely be the fall of 2023 before most parishioners are invited to give. There is much preparation work to complete, including the project steering committee’s crucial work of addressing concerns our parishioners raised in the planning study as they finalize Phase 1 projects and goals for the campaign. We will also seek some lead financial gifts to ensure that we have significant support for the campaign before broadening our reach to all parishioners.
This is an exciting time for our two parishes as we seek to lay a strong foundation for a positive future. In the coming months, you will learn much more about the campaign and the different ways you can help. In the meantime, please pray for our leaders and volunteers who will soon work diligently to ensure a successful outcome.
Sincerely in Christ
Father Jason Crossen & Father Rich Adam
