Episcopal Church Makes Official Announcement To Move Forward With A Capital Campaign

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
February 8, 2026

Owings Mills, MD — St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church has officially announced plans to move forward with a capital campaign following the successful completion of a four-week feasibility study conducted in partnership with James D. Klote & Associates, a nationally recognized full-time fundraising consulting firm.

The study, which included focus group discussions, and parishioner surveys, revealed strong enthusiasm and broad-based support for addressing the church’s long-term sustainability and mission priorities. Based on these findings, the Vestry of St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church voted unanimously to proceed with a capital campaign, affirming the congregation’s readiness and commitment to the vision ahead.

“This decision reflects the remarkable spirit of generosity, faith, and shared purpose within the St. Thomas’ community,” said Mel Kalagian, consultant with James D. Klote & Associates, who guided the feasibility study process. “Parishioners expressed strong support for addressing immediate, preparing for unforeseen needs, and expanding the church’s outreach ministry to better meet the needs of the community and beyond.”

The capital campaign will focus on preserving and strengthening St. Thomas’ sacred and missional life, with particular emphasis on restoring and sustaining its historic organ and expanding its outreach as a servant church. The organ central to worship for generations stands as a living symbol of the parish’s spiritual heritage, while the church’s outreach ministries reflect its ongoing call to serve neighbors in need. By investing in both treasured traditions and life-giving service, the campaign will ensure St. Thomas’ remains a vibrant place of worship, welcome, and compassionate action for years to come.

Founded in 1742, St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church has been a faithful presence in the Owings Mills community for nearly three centuries. From its earliest days serving settlers in the Garrison Forest area, the parish has remained committed to worship, service, and outreach. Today, St. Thomas’ continues to honor its legacy by following Jesus’ call to love God and neighbor, partnering with local organizations, and responding to the evolving needs of the community as a servant church rooted in faith and action.

With offices in Great Falls, Virginia; Chicago, Illinois; Los Angeles, California; Dallas, Texas; and Toronto, Ontario, Canada, James D. Klote & Associates is the largest full-time, on-site stewardship consulting firm in North America. For additional information, please contact the firm at www.jdklote.com or 703-532-7633.