As the calendar year draws to a close, the Advent season offers a unique opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments, reframe our challenges and commit to new seasons of growth moving forward. Recently, the Vestry participated in a day long retreat assessing progress to date and discerning future actions related to St. Bart’s Strategic Plan. Below, please find our updates, shared in a spirit of mutual commitment to our community’s ongoing flourishing.
Pillar 1: Build the Organization to Support Growth
- We’re pleased to report that revenue from our Mission Supporting Activities has surpassed projections for the first time since 2019. Driven primarily by rentals of the gym and pool and a renegotiated agreement with Inside Park, we are heartened to see progress in these areas. The Screen Actors Guild strike impacted Community House rentals yet we remain optimistic about what 2024 will yield as television and film production returns to midtown.
Pillar 2: Achieving Financial Stability and Increasing Giving
- The 2023 Mission Plan reflects a stewardship goal of $2.8M with current projections landing closer to $2.4M. Previous years have taught us that the end of the calendar year crucially brings in an influx of support. With prayers and commitment in the coming weeks, we hope to raise ~$830,000 between completed ‘23 pledges and seasonal gifts.
- The 2024 pledge campaign is off to a very strong start with 245 pledges to date. Additionally, we have added 17 new members to the Mosaic Society (members include St. Bart’s in their estate plans)—more than three times our goal!
- Our Advent and Christmas giving campaign, Wondrous Generosity, which is supporting the vital ministries of care and outreach through our Faith in Action partnerships and programs is well underway.
Pillar 3: Growing and Diversifying Membership
Pillar 4: Boosting Parish Engagement
Pillar 6: Capitalizing on Digital Trends
- Attendance has reached 88% of 2019 levels, well surpassing our goal of 80% and in fact, if we combine in person and online attendance—attendance is 122% of 2019 reflecting the vibrancy of our church community and the diligent work of our clergy and parish life staff.
- With 16 Connects Groups and ~ 160 participants spanning the parish, we are engaging with one another and growing our spiritual lives. If you’re interested in joining a Connects Group, please contact Senior Associate Rector Zack Nyein at
- Crossroads is responding to our neighbors in need like never before. The annual Fare Share Friday event which took place the Friday after Thanksgiving provided close to 600 guests with a nourishing holiday meal and winter necessities like blankets and hats. During the month of November, between food offered directly to guests and the food pantry, Crossroads served approximately 8000 meals a week.
Pillar 5: Fully Leveraging Buildings and Mission Supporting Activities
- We continue to invest in our historic landmark building by partnering with our owner’s representative, Zubatkin, on the much-needed HVAC project. The work has entered the schematic design phase and we anticipate having drawings and cost estimates by April of 2024. Currently, the estimated cost for the entire project is projected land at approximately $7M.
With Advent marking the beginning of the liturgical year, we are filled with hope and gratitude for our St. Bart’s community and we’re wishing you and your families many blessings during this holiday season.
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