Click here to view Fr. John David’s video introduction to our 2026 pledge campaign.

Dear members and friends of our beloved parish,

It is that time of year when the parish undertakes its annual pledge campaign in support of the budget year 2026, and I want to start by thanking you for your faith, devotion, and resilience during this time in our long history.  Many describe our current time as dark and unprecedented.  Our prayer list is chock-full of global and national events that force all of us to think and act outside the confines of our humble yet hardworking parish, and yet we are strong and faithful, due to the power of prayer and the example of Jesus Christ.

Yes, our Little Church has endured much throughout its 177 years, and as the present stewards, we have the sacred task of supporting the current ministries of the parish and the needs of a struggling city and beyond.  In addition to our vibrant and world class music program and our meaningful liturgy, we hold the responsibility for the upkeep of our treasured buildings and garden, as well as our various outreach ministries - often in support of marginalized populations - both here and in our Diocese.  Some of our members and friends, out of great abundance, are able to offer generous pledge amounts.  Countless others have quietly given, leaving no great monuments or records of their offerings.  Nevertheless, they have supported the parish in no less a loving and sincere fashion.   

As always, we have two methods of making a pledge here at the Little Church.  These two means of pledging do something quite significant:  Both are a tried and true approach that make pledging available to everyone!

• For those who are able to make a specific pledge amount, the pledge is a commitment of that amount for the coming year. This allows our vestry and treasurer to better budget and predict our income for the upcoming year. Parishioners can always give more than their pledged amount, but the initial pledge should be an amount that is within the means of the pledger.  

• The second method is through an Open Pledge.  This is for those who, for whatever reason, are not able to predict their income or ability to pledge a specific amount.  Throughout the year, open pledgers give what they can in light of changing circumstances.  

Together we join generations of parishioners who have found God’s presence and faithful solace within our walls and in our garden.  We are truly a unique parish and community that has withstood unprecedented times before, and I ask for your prayers and support so that we can sustain our church and mission as we seek to do God’s work in this neighborhood, this city, this country and in the world.

With love, 
Fr. van Dooren