The 50 MORE! Campaign
St. Thomas More
St. Thomas More—50 MORE! 2
Our Mission
We, the faith community of St. Thomas More, confirm our commitment to our Lord and brother,
Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life. We center on the Eucharist and the embodiment
of Catholic family values. We commit to love of neighbor: hospitality and compassion; nurturing
and enrichment; empathy and social justice, emphasizing the contemporary needs of the church and
the poor.
Cover Photo is a concept photo only and is being used as a representation of a future design.
3 St. Thomas More—50 MORE!
Dear People of St. Thomas More, God loves you and so do I!
It has been two years since I first walked on this holy ground as your pastor. From that first moment
I have been deeply moved by your loving faith and joyful commitment to God.
In God’s providence, Fr. Gerald Falk has continued to serve in
our community, our ministry team has remained together and
grown, and we have all been invited to embrace the vision and
dreams that God has revealed to us through the Diocese of
Green Bay’s visioning process.
In God’s providence, we now enter our Jubilee year, and
prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary. From our humble
beginnings at Rainbow Gardens in 1963 to the building of the
gym-church-school in the midst of Randall’s woods in 1966,
to the building of our current church in 1989, your generous
gifts of time, talent, and treasure have always been offered for
the glory of God. Special thanks go to Fr. Falk for his 40 years
as our Pastor and to our Charter members who have remained
faithfully present through the years.
In God’s providence, we now have the opportunity to make
some important investments in our facilities and our future.
The 50 MORE! Campaign will provide the resources we need to make significant enhancements
to our worship space, grounds, and facilities, as well as provide necessary support to the Youth
Ministry, Scholarship Fund, Bishop’s Appeal, and Endowment Fund for our growing ministry needs.
Thank you to all who have helped prepare our community to embrace this opportunity before us!
Please read on to find out more about our Jubilee year dreams and prayerfully consider a generous
gift to the 50 MORE! Campaign. Let us join together in Jubilee excitement and joy as we reflect
upon the blessings of God’s love in our lives; 50 years together...and please God, 50 MORE!
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Fr. Jim Lucas
Pastor of St. Thomas More
St. Thomas More—50 MORE! 4
Parish History St. Thomas More Parish will soon celebrate
fifty years since its founding in 1963.
Appreciating and honoring our history will be
important during the upcoming enhancement
of the structure and the celebration throughout
the Jubilee year.
Rev. Patrick McMahon, the founding pastor of
St. Thomas More, celebrated the first Mass
held at Rainbow Gardens dance hall in 1963.
During the following year, building plans
were develop to construct a new church
facility, school and convent on the 12 acre
parcel known as Randall’s Woods. In 1966,
with 600 parish families and 333 students, the
$741,876 project, funded by parishioners,
was completed.
The first project, however, did not include
the church structure that is currently used.
Weekend Masses were celebrated in the
gymnasium.
Rev. Gerald Falk was named pastor in
September 1970 and faithfully led the parish
for 40 years. He continues to serve the people
of St. Thomas More as Pastor Emeritus.
The 25th anniversary of the parish marked
an opportunity for change and expansion.
The parishioners approved the renovation of
the existing complex and the construction
of a new church facility at a cost of $690,000.
In 1996 the parish saw more changes to the
facility. Funded by a generous $1 million
donation and $1 million parishioner pledges,
the school was completely renovated as well
as the parish and religious education offices.
The final construction project took place in
1999 when, as a result of another private
donation, the Gathering Area of the Church
was added.
Rev. James Lucas was named the pastor of
St. Thomas More Church in September 2010.
Church entrance in the 1980’s with parish members being greeted
by Rev. Dave Belongea, OFM Cap. and Rev. Gerald Falk.
View of the facility and grounds in 1997. The structure in the
center back originally served as both the school gymnasium and
the original church.
Rev. Gerald Falk and Rev. James Lucas at the diocesan-wide
Catholic School mass, leading the parish forward into the next
50 years.
5 St. Thomas More—50 MORE!
Since that time, focus groups of parishioners
have discovered strengths and revealed dreams
for the future of the parish. Community,
Education, Pastoral Care Ministry, Liturgy,
and Service and Justice were identified as the
core reality of the parish.
As the parish approaches its anniversary, a
majority of parishioners have shown support
for the proposed renovation. This project will
bring about important and necessary changes
to the parish, through the worship space
enhancements and facility renovations
being planned.
Going Forward
Throughout the history of St. Thomas More,
parishioners have been guided by the Holy
Spirit. Their involvement in community
outreach is as an expression of their love of
Jesus Christ.
Many parishioners serve on committees that
support the parish mission. Others are actively
involved in music ministry, bible studies,
prayer groups, retreats, care of the sick and
needy, youth ministry, and social justice
concerns. The reach of St. Thomas More is
certainly beyond the physical walls of the
Church and extends into the larger community
and world.
Our patron saint inspires us to go beyond the
ordinary as a parish through his words, “If any
good thing shall go forward, something must
be adventured.” In 2011, a diverse group of
parish members and staff joined together and
began investigating the needs and desires of
our parish. Along every step of the process,
respect and honor was given to the past,
concern and hope given to the future, and
costs versus comfort considered.
Although the current church is built simply
and fundamentally sound, there are repairs that
are needed. The campaign will raise funds
for this purpose. More importantly, the
Holy Spirit always encourages us to grow
in holiness. Therefore, as an expression of
our faith, the function, symbolism, beauty,
hospitality, and vibrancy of our worship space
will be updated.
The committee also looked beyond the church
building. The campaign will allow us to
continue our current ministries and to develop
new and extraordinary services and programs.
Funds will also be raised for our Youth
Ministry allowing our youth to fully engage
in our parish and community.
St. Thomas More Elementary school provides
students the opportunity to experience a top-
rated Catholic education. Included in the
current enhancement project are areas that will
benefit the day school as well as other parish
events in the lower level.
Sound stewardship through regular collections
provides for most of the day-to-day needs
of the parish. However, the parish currently
relies on the Endowment Fund to provide the
additional funds needed to maintain a balanced
budget. The campaign seeks to grow the
Endowment Fund to help ensure the future
financial stability of the parish, as well as to
grow our programs.
All 1,200 parish families are asked to join
in proclaiming their love for God during the
50 MORE! Campaign and, just as our
predecessors, make a meaningful contribution
and legacy for future generations.
“If any good thing shall go
forward, something must be
adventured.” Saint Thomas More
St. Thomas More—50 MORE! 6
Worship Space Enhancements
The shape of the sanctuary reflects the new design created for the new entrance area to the worship
space and the baptismal font. This visual connection reinforces procession and our theology that
only through baptism can we share in Eucharist, the body of Christ.
The enhanced sanctuary has a larger surface area. Appropriate recognition is given to the ambo and
altar by the creation of more space around both furnishings.
The new main altar is created using our current altar, as well as adding marble from the first altar
that was used in the gym church, with a new ambo designed to match.
The ambo (pulpit) is moved to the left side of the sanctuary to provide visual and physical
separation from the music area to enhance attention to the proclamation of the Word.
The current sanctuary is not accessible to those in wheelchairs or to those unable to climb steps.
The new design provides access to both the sanctuary and the new Eucharistic Reservation Chapel
through the addition of two ramps.
Handicapped accessible seating will be incorporated in the main seating area.
More space is created for procession on the sanctuary platform as well as the opportunity to adjust
the location of the furnishings for special liturgical celebrations and needs.
Lighting and sound improvements are planned including the installation of a hearing loop system.
A corpus (body of Christ), carved by a local artist, will be fastened to the main cross for most of
the liturgical year but can be removed when needed.
Music area improvements may include redesigned seating for the choir and a new piano and organ.
The posture of kneeling during
the Eucharistic Prayer and after
the Lamb of God is the
approved posture of the
Catholic bishops of the United
States. Kneelers will be
installed as a matter of
hospitality, for without them,
the congregation would be
asked to kneel on the floor.
Photos on page 6 and 7 are concept photos only and are being used as
representations of future designs.
7 St. Thomas More—50 MORE!
Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.
Baptism means to “plunge” or to “immerse” which is why the font is designed to contain a
significant amount of water. The new design of the baptismal font allows for baptisms of both
infants and adults.
Floor level entry allows easy access to the
immersion pool. Specially designed gates
provide safety yet are easily removed for
access when desired.
The alpha and omega base reminds us of Christ
(Revelation 22:13) and connects us to our
beginning (alpha) of faith in Christ at baptism
and completion (omega) of our faith in Christ
celebrated at the funeral rites.
The cross reminds us of the mystery of the
dying and rising of Jesus that we participate in
through baptism.
The circle represents the universal and inclusive desire of God that all will be saved.
Welcoming members through enhanced doors to the church.
The enhanced doors to the church entry will remind us that we are entering God’s house,
a sacred place.
The current chapel will be moved to create
a more open family area. Parents with
young children who wish to, may view mass
from large windows and doors located at the
entrance to the church.
A small Eucharistic Reservation Chapel
will be built behind the tabernacle in the
sanctuary to create an intimate setting for
private prayer in the presence of the Blessed
Sacrament.
When leaving, we will be reminded of our
baptismal mission-to live in the Spirit of the
Risen Christ!
St. Thomas More—50 MORE! 8
$2 Million Goal for 50 MORE! Campaign
As St. Thomas More celebrates 50 years of faith and community we embark on a large scale campaign
to fund a number of areas of need. Estimates for each component of the campaign are listed below.
As good stewards of expected donations the campaign committee plans to spend less than .5% on
administrative fees during this campaign.
Worship Space Enhancements $ 1,201,703 Some of the improvements in this area will include:
Removal and repair of the interior walls due to moisture and cosmetic concerns
New sanctuary back wall, Eucharistic Reservation chapel and Tabernacle wall
New cross with Jesus on it with flexibility to remove seasonally
Music area improvements
Flooring replacement and additional persons with disability seating area
Hearing impaired loop system and sound improvement
Furnish and install kneelers, with potential re-spacing of some pews for additional comfort
Design modifications to nave doors to enhance the sacred entry to the nave of the church
New Baptismal font
Removal of chapel and creation of family area for increased visibility within the Narthex
Exterior Enhancement $ 118,232
Exterior signage to invite and welcome members and guests
Landscape improvements
Carillon (speakers that play music and call to prayer) added near the carport
Interior Renovation $ 159,748
Addition of a lower level cafeteria bathroom that will be utilized by the school children and
parishioners attending fish fries, bingo, and other hospitality events.
Main entrance reception office renovation to improve hospitality and security to parish and school.
Bishop’s Appeal 2013 $ 64,000 (estimated) The 2013 annual Bishop’s Appeal will be rolled into this campaign for one year only.
Endowment $ 300,000 The Endowment Fund has assisted the parish in its mission by providing supplemental funding of its
programs and services and additional support for its operation, maintenance, and capital requirements
that our stewardship support has not provided. It also has allowed the parish to expand its ministries.
Scholarship Fund $ 146,317
The Scholarship Fund assists families who need tuition assistance to educate their children in the
St. Thomas More day school or night school programs.
Youth Ministry $ 10,000 The 2012-2013 fiscal year fundraising for youth programs will be funded by the campaign, therefore
eliminating many smaller fundraising efforts.
9 St. Thomas More—50 MORE!
Why Give
Not long ago Bishop Ricken announced a
Visioning Process for all churches in the
Diocese of Green Bay. The process invited us
to pray, discover, discuss, and dream about
our church and God’s calling to us in the time
we live.
As St. Thomas More approaches the celebration
of our 50th anniversary, we have this unique and
timely opportunity to invest in our worship
space for the greater honor and glory of God.
St. Thomas More is very conscious of our
members that need additional assistance to
enjoy our worship space. Funding from this
campaign will incorporate additional handicap
accessibility, as well as improved lighting and
sound for all to enjoy.
Additional gathering space for growing families
will only strengthen our future.
Growing the Endowment Fund ensures that our
facilities can be maintained and our ministries
expanded to meet the growing needs of our faith
community.
Investing in education through our Scholarship
Fund and growing the Youth Ministry area to
enhance the faith of our youth will always be a
goal of the St. Thomas More parish.
Our love for God can always be enhanced and
grow stronger. The 50 MORE! Campaign is one
significant and lasting way for us to show our
love for God.
What to Give
The St. Thomas More Parish community is
asking all to make a sacrifice for the Lord
during this campaign. One size does not fit all
in terms of giving amount. Some families may
be able to give more than others. Please pray
about what God is calling you to give.
We ask that you consider giving the equivalent
of your first hour worked each week to this
campaign. Or simply 2.5% of your total
annual income to the project each year for
three years. This gift would be above and
beyond your current support of the parish.
Please know that whatever you are able to give
is greatly appreciated.
Ways to Give
You may give your gift in one lump sum or
over a period of three years. You can give
monthly, quarterly or annually to fit your
household budget.
An ACH direct debit may also be set up for
your convenience. Credit cards, stock and other
donations are being accepted for this campaign.
The Catholic Foundation for the Diocese
of Green Bay, Inc. has generously offered to
assist St. Thomas More in processing pledges
and receipts for this campaign.
Please complete a pledge card to ensure your
choice of payment is processed per your request.
“I am truly grateful and
blessed because our
parish has such a warm
family feeling.” Charter Member, Bette Toppins
St. Thomas More—50 MORE! 10
Worship Space Enhancement Committee: Fr. Mark Joseph Costello, OFM Cap.,
Liturgical Design
Dennis Horbinski,
Liturgical Design Consultant
Pat DelPonte,
Hoffman Project Planning Director
Todd Bushmaker,
Hoffman Architect and Design
Fr. Jim Lucas
Sr. Betty Reinders
Sr. Mary Rose Menting
Bob Balza
Jim and Diane Guckenberg
Bill and Kiki Harke
Don and Sue Johnson
Joan Kula
Kim and Mark Mettelmann
Jim and Jill Nelson
Scott Pearce
Anita Revord
Tim and Judy Rothe
Sandy Scheibe
Chris and Carol Sullivan
Jim and Maria Totzke
To our fellow parishioners, The faith community of St. Thomas More has come together to develop worship enhancement projects
and a fundraising campaign to meet the current needs of our parish as well as future needs through
endowment funding. We take a moment to thank the members who have given of their time and talent
to this endeavor.
As co-chairs of the campaign we look forward to the opportunity for all parishioners to come together
through a project of this magnitude. What a tremendous way to show current and future members
the value of a Catholic community that embraces growing their faith through such beautiful enhance-
ments, future growth through endowment contributions, and the overall excitement of working with
each other to share a new worship space.
Thank you for being members of St. Thomas More and for your consideration in joining us for
50 MORE!
Pat and Helen Hart Dave and Kim O’Brien
Patricia Verbrick
Therese Magnus Wang
Ed and Ginny Wurzer
2012 –2013 Parish Council: Fr. Jim Lucas
Brad Donnermeyer
Kiki Harke
Sharon Maretech
Jim Nelson
Joyce Paltzer
Sandy Scheibe
Dawn Severson
Jim Totzke
JuanValdez
2012-2013 Finance Council: Fr. Jim Lucas
Tony Balza
Karen Bendel
Roy Conrad
Lori Lanser
Kim O’Brien
Dan Rorabeck
Paul Werner
Mike Wodushek
11 St. Thomas More—50 MORE!
Communications Committee:
Fr. Jim Lucas
Sr. Mary Rose Menting
Sr. Betty Reinders
Kiki Harke
Joan Kula
Mark Mettelmann
Kim O’Brien
Scott Pearce
Art and Environment Leader:
Joan Kula
Building and Grounds Leader:
Jim Totzke
Advance Giving Leaders: Maria Totzke
Mike Wodushek
Student/Children Activity Leader:
Maria Totzke
Outreach Leader:
Scott Pearce
There are many additional campaign members that have helped, and will continue to help, in moving
St. Thomas More toward 50 MORE! years of faith and fellowship. Thank you to all that contributed.
There is still more to do so if you are interested in joining one of the many committees please contact
the campaign at [email protected] or call the parish office.
Food, Fun & Fellowship Team:
Betty Conrad
Karla Gunville
Deb Kaufman
Bobbi Lanser
Lisa Pfaff
Karen Rickert
Kathy Sasman
Prayer Leaders—Worship and Spiritual
Life Commission
Sr. Mary Rose Menting
Sr. Betty Reinders
Brian Conrad
Don Johnson
Joan Kula
Dean Laux
Kim Lesperance
Mary Ann Pflum
Judy Rothe
Sandy Scheibe
Patricia Verbrick
Ginny Wurzer
“We have been blessed with 50 years of dedicated
priests, nuns, and lay personnel and just as
important, we have made loving, lasting friends
here. St. Thomas More continues to be a very
meaningful part of our lives.” Charter Members, Jerry & Joyce Depies
St. Thomas More Catholic Church
1810 North McDonald Street
Appleton, WI 54911
Website: www.stmcath.org
Email: [email protected]
Parish Office Phone: (920) 739-7758
Fax: (920) 749-3743
Jubilee Prayer
Gracious God, source of all life and holiness, fill us your
St. Thomas More Faith Community with love, in joyful anticipation
of our parish’s 50th anniversary. Touch our hearts with a spirit of
thankfulness and generosity as we gather each week to receive your Word
and be nourished with your Body and Blood. May St. Thomas More, our
patron, intercede for us another 50 years, as we strengthen and beautify
our church. May we continue to be a Spirit-filled community of love and
service, working together to give you glory. We ask this through Jesus,
who with the Father and the Holy Spirit enfold us in your love, now and
forever. Amen.