The Catholic Diocese of Winona says a fundraising capital campaign will begin its public phase in January.
                   
The Diocese newspaper, "The Courier" says the 'Rooted in Faith, Rejoice in Hope' campaign has been involved in a silent phase over the past several months.

The overall funds will be earmarked for needed improvements to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary on the St. Mary's University campus, and for replenishing an endowment fund for retired priests .

The seminary has been in operation for 65 years with nearly every priest in the Diocese being educated there. The buildings are in need of updating including heating and cooling systems plus classrooms.
  
The average age of priests in the Diocese is currently 63.       

The newspaper says the public portion of the campaign will include three parish waves during 2013. The phase involving Deaneries in Winona and Albert Lea-Austin will take place from July through December.