The Missionary Society of St. Columban, (a.k.a. Columban Fathers and hereafter referred to as the Society), deeply appreciates the spiritual and financial sacrifices of those who support our missionary endeavors. We consider this relationship with our benefactors to be a sacred trust, and we go to considerable lengths to honor that trust.

As one of the founding members of the National Catholic Development Conference, we fully endorse the "Donor Bill of Rights," a document developed by several cooperating fundraising organizations. These guiding principles promote high ethical standards in charitable fundraising. By embracing these principles, we hope to preserve and promote the integrity of Catholic philanthropy.

The Columban Fathers are a Catholic missionary society entrusted by the Holy Father with part of the Church's mission "to spread the Faith and saving work of Christ" (Second Vatican Council).

The Society works under the guidance of the Sacred Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and under the leadership of the bishops.

The Columban Fathers are listed in the U.S. Official Catholic Directory published annually by P.J. Kenedy and Sons.

The U.S. Internal Revenue Service recognizes us as a religious not-for-profit corporation. Therefore, contributions to our work are tax-deductible.

We employ no professional fundraisers and pay no commissions.

 2007 Bill of Rights

 As a Columban benefactor, your rights include:


• To be informed of our mission, the way we intend to use donated resources, and of our capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purpose.
• To be informed of the identity of those who serve on our governing council and to expect the council to exercise prudent judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.
• To have access to the Society's most-recent Annual Report.
• To be assured that your gift will be used for the purpose for which it is given.
• To receive appropriate acknowledgment and recognition.
• To be assured that information about your donation is handled with respect and confidentiality to the extent provided by law.
• To expect that all relationships with individuals representing the Society will be professional in nature.
• To be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers, employees of the Society, or hired consultants or solicitors.
• To have your name deleted from our mailing list.
• To feel free to ask questions when making a donation and expect to receive prompt, truthful and forthright answers.
• To be assured that we never sell, rent, or exchange the names of our faithful benefactors with any other organization, agency or individual.