I want to commend the work of the consultant who directed the fundraising project at St Thomas’ Episcopal Church. The church is planning renovations to upgrade and enhance our facilities. I was an active participant in the last campaign for the handicap accessibility. During the current planning, the consultant (with the vestry) presented a renovation wish list. In addition he guided many opportunities for written questionnaires with people’s input. I was impressed by his facilitating meeting that engaged all of the parishioners – to voice concern, to suggest alternatives, and to add other needs. The consultant is engaged, attentive, receptive, and a good listener. From fact finding onward, he was organized, persistent, and patient. I am very thankful for his talents in making the fundraising goal feasible.
St. Thomas' Episcopal Church
Rochester, New York
703-399-0518
info@jdklote.com 



Carmel Lutheran Church kicked off its ‘Hearts Compelled To Share’ capital campaign in record style. As of January 25th just 73 families of the more than 900 in the church had already committed $3.75 million dollars. That total represents not only the best kickoff to a campaign at CLC, it also represents the best campaign in total even though only 8% of the congregation has pledged so far.
The previous best campaign was just four years ago when CLC collected a total of about $3 million in pledges from over 425 donors.
"Jim Klote, president of James D. Klote and Associates, a capital stewardship consulting firm based in Fall Church, VA, appears on the big screen during his "All Things New" presentation at this year's Annual Conference session. Klote and Associates will conduct free stewardship education workshops for churches in all 18 districts of the conference this fall.
Participants listen attentively during the church stewardship workshop at Wright's Chapel UMC.The Virginia Conference sponsored series of stewardship workshops in each district is winding down, with two more district gatherings remaining in November.
