Catholics in Fundraising Conference 2026

Catholics in Fundraising Conference speakers

Purpose. Authenticity. Mission. Impact.

These were the golden threads woven through this year's Catholics in Fundraising Conference, held on 25th June at the Amigo Hall, St George's Cathedral, Southwark.

100 fundraisers from across England and Wales-representing 64 Catholic charitable organisations-gathered for a day of inspiration, learning, and connection. The conference offered not only a chance to share experiences but also to gain insights from a compelling line-up of speakers and a panel of sector experts.

Matt Parkes, from the Chartered Institute of Fundraising and founder of Scenius Fundraising, explored current trends and offered practical takeaways: "Things to notice, things to watch, things to try."

Inno Van Den Berg from Evelyn Partners addressed the power of partnerships with religious orders to ensure the legacy of their mission endures. Liam Allmark (JRS UK) gave a presentation on Finding Tomorrow's Community of Support. George Reynolds, Archdiocese of Westminster, shared the growing potential of contactless and digital giving in Catholic churches. Harvey Duthie, Belmont Fundraising, spoke on the importance of clarity in communication and planning to ensure success for fundraising that supports the Church's mission.

Rich Ward, RAW Brothers, left a lasting impression with many sharp insights such as 'people don't buy marketing they buy values' encouraging charities to focus on the value they bring to lives

Mark Choonara, from the Daughters of Charity Services, reflected on the mix of attendees: "I met a really incredible and diverse mix of people from across a good range of organisations, working at varying scales."

Isabella Reed, from St Raphael's Hospice said: "It's been great meeting so many amazing people from the Catholic fundraising community. What struck me most was learning what's working, what's not, and how we can improve. Last year, we had to make £1 million in cuts-devastating. But the strategies I've picked up today will be invaluable."

Stephen Awre, from the Columban Missionaries in Britain said: "This is my third or fourth conference, and it's always a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow fundraisers. Today's sessions offered practical insights I'll take back to our team.

Brendan Metcalf, CEO of Friends of the Holy Land, commented: "This conference has been one of the most insightful I've attended-and far more cost-effective than many others. I'd encourage everyone to get involved."

The day began with prayer led by Canon Michael Branch, Cathedral Dean, and concluded with sung Vespers in the Cathedral.

John Green, Founder and Director of Catholics in Fundraising, closed the event by thanking the sponsors for their generous support: AD LIMINA - Fundraising | Communication | Strategy; Epworth - Investing Faithfully; Give A Little; Stone King - Specialist Legal Advice and Yeomans - Marketeers.

To join the weekly Catholics in Fundraising enewsletter, email: catholicsinfundraising@gmail.com

Catholics in Fundraising is the UK's leading network for Catholics working in fundraising. It aims to build a strong community of like-minded individuals, offer insights into best practices, and encourage innovative approaches to fundraising within the Catholic context.

Twitter: @cathfundraising