Feasibility Study Results- Bishop Senior - Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish and Our Lady of Fatima Mission

May 27, 2026

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The Diocese of Harrisburg recently partnered with the Steier Group to test the feasibility and potential support for a major initiative to fund several key priorities. The study was conducted from January through March 2026, and we received feedback from over 2,100 participants. The goal of the study was to gain insights from clergy, faithful donors, and parishioners across the diocese. Thank you for sharing your thoughts during this important process.

At the conclusion of the study, the Steier Group presented its findings and recommendations to me, my Senior Staff, the Presbyteral Council, the College of Deans, and the Diocesan Pastoral and Finance Councils. Two preliminary findings stood out:

There was a broad and even response across all areas of the diocese – a sign that the survey results are representative of our registered Catholic population.
70% of respondents were in favor of a fundraising initiative and 76% indicated they would financially support the effort.

I encourage you to review the summary to learn more about the results on our website, www.hbgdiocese.org.

I have taken to heart all the constructive comments and suggestions voiced during this study, and with the support of my Senior Staff, Presbyteral Council, the College of Deans, as well as the Diocesan Pastoral and Finance Councils, we will begin preparations for a major fundraising initiative this month.

Many of the respondents provided very helpful feedback which will be seriously considered as we finalize the case statement and specific details for this initiative. Others raised thoughtful questions about the timing of a major fundraising initiative given current political and economic uncertainty. I respect those concerns. At the same time, when I look at our diocese and our nation, I see a Church that is alive and growing, with people seeking a deeper encounter with Jesus Christ. Considering the large number of people coming into the Catholic Church this past Easter, this is a moment filled with opportunity, and I believe we are called to respond with faith and confidence.

Now is the time to move forward with hope and trust in God.

With that, there is much planning to do. In the coming months, we will develop more specific plans that detail how funds from this initiative will be used. Other questions must also be answered, including how this initiative will complement the Diocesan Annual Campaign, the overall structure of this effort, and how parishes and parishioners will be asked to participate. We will share this information with you as we make progress.

As we embark on this journey, please join me in praying to St. Patrick, the patron of our diocese, that through his intercession, we may rise to the challenges and opportunities of this effort, and that ultimately, we will strengthen the future of our diocese for decades to come.