Top Church Capital Campaigns Questions

When is a church ready for a capital campaign?

A church may be ready for a capital campaign when it has a clearly articulated vision, stable leadership, and a sense of shared purpose within the congregation. Readiness is not measured solely by financial capacity, but also by trust, communication, and congregational engagement.

A pre-campaign feasibility study is often the best way to assess readiness and determine whether the timing is appropriate.

What is a church capital campaign feasibility study and why is it important?

A feasibility study is a structured process that gathers feedback from members, leaders, and key donors through confidential conversations. The study evaluates readiness, fundraising capacity, and congregational support for the proposed project.

For churches, a feasibility study provides clarity, builds trust, and helps leadership make informed decisions before committing to a capital campaign.

How long does a church capital campaign take?

While every church is unique, most capital campaigns follow a timeline that includes planning, a quiet or leadership phase, and a broader congregational phase. From preparation through completion, many campaigns span several months to a year.

A thoughtful timeline allows time for prayerful discernment, communication, and relationship-centered engagement.

How much can a church realistically raise?

The amount a church can raise depends on several factors, including congregational size, giving history, leadership support, and the clarity of the project vision. Rather than guessing, a feasibility study provides realistic guidance based on actual feedback and donor capacity.

Who should lead a church capital campaign?

Successful church capital campaigns rely on strong leadership from clergy, lay leaders, and a committed volunteer committee. Clear roles, training, and support are essential.

An experienced capital campaign consultant helps equip leaders, guide volunteers, and ensure the process remains organized and respectful.

How is a capital campaign different from the annual fund?

An annual fund supports ongoing ministry and operating needs, while a capital campaign focuses on specific, long-term projects. A well-planned capital campaign is designed to complement—not replace—annual giving and stewardship efforts.

What role does communication play in a capital campaign?

Clear, consistent communication is central to a successful campaign. Congregations need to understand the vision, the purpose of the project, and how their participation makes a difference.

Effective communication builds trust, encourages participation, and helps maintain momentum throughout the campaign.

Should our church hire a capital campaign consultant?

Many churches choose to work with a consultant to bring structure, experience, and an outside perspective to the process. A consultant provides guidance, tools, and support while allowing church leaders to focus on ministry and relationships.

What are the phases of a church capital campaign?

Most church capital campaigns follow a series of intentional phases that help build clarity, trust, and participation across the congregation. These phases typically include planning and preparation, a pre-campaign feasibility study, a leadership or quiet phase, a broader congregational phase, and a follow-up period focused on stewardship and pledge fulfillment. While the details may vary from church to church, this phased approach allows leaders to listen carefully, communicate clearly, and guide the congregation through a thoughtful and well-organized capital campaign.