This article was originally printed in the Hospitallers Newsletter Volume 20 Summer 2020, Page 16.

As you may know, the Association is currently engaged in a feasibility study to determine whether a Capital campaign is possible and what steps need to be completed to make it a success if the Association decides to move forward. To determine the right answers (and the correct questions), the consulting firm, CCS Fundraising, was engaged to conduct the study.

After more than fifty interviews with members from across the Association, our consultant was able to tell us some important things about ourselves as an organization. The study presented critical initiatives core to our mission: our cherished pilgrimages and devotion to human services.  These are central to our shared experiences as members and call to mind our pledge to service.  

Members in the Order experience a deep spiritual commitment to our faith. The Association is truly a   spiritual home for our members. That was apparent to the interviewers by what you said about the Order and by the activities in which you are involved. For many of you, engaging in activities that provided you with an opportunity for hands-on work represented a direct link to your spiritual growth.

The members who were interviewed told the consultant that you wanted more information about the Pilgrimage Foundation and the Malta Human Services Foundation and a better understanding about how monies are being spent and what impact substantial increases to these endowments would enable in the future.

Many of you wanted to know if the capital campaign would create an ability for the Association to respond more quickly and with greater impact to future events such as the pandemic which is severely affecting the sick and the poor.

Discernment continues. We will be communicating over the coming months to engage you in a constructive conversation about our future. We ask for your prayers and for your feedback. 

This article was contributed by Gail and Joseph Berardino, Co-Chairs of the Capital Campaign.