Catholic Foundation Engages Presbyteral Council on Parish Endowments and Upcoming Online Art Auction

Mark DiPippa, Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Scranton, addressed the Diocese’s Presbyteral Council during its February meeting, offering an update on opportunities to strengthen long‑term parish support through endowments and to promote the Foundation’s upcoming online art auction.

During the presentation, DiPippa highlighted the growing importance of parish‑based endowments as a sustainable way to support ministry, operations, and the future needs of local faith communities. He invited priests to partner with the Foundation in encouraging parishioners to consider legacy gifts that strengthen their individual parishes for generations to come.

A major portion of the presentation focused on the Foundation’s next online auction benefiting the Founders Campaign, an initiative designed to expand the Foundation’s capacity to serve parishes, schools, and diocesan ministries. This year’s auction features a generous and unique contribution from Austin Burke, former President of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and a renowned regional artist. Burke has donated 26 original paintings to support the campaign.

The auction will open shortly after Easter and run through May 8, 2026.

“We are deeply grateful to Austin Burke for his extraordinary generosity and his longstanding commitment to the Diocese of Scranton,” said DiPippa. “His artwork will not only inspire bidders but will also make a meaningful impact on the parishes and ministries we serve.”

For additional information about the online auction or to learn how your parish can benefit from establishing an endowment, please contact:

Mark DiPippa
Executive Director, Catholic Foundation
Phone: 570‑575‑8813