Annual Catholic Appeal

“The love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”

— Romans 5:5

Each year, the Annual Catholic Appeal offers more than an invitation to give. It is a sacred opportunity to renew our “yes” to Christ and to live as disciples whose hearts overflow with the love of God.

From the pierced Heart of Jesus on the Cross flowed blood and water, the fountain of divine mercy. This is divine love poured out completely: self-giving, life-giving, and unreserved. Each time we celebrate the Eucharist, we are drawn into that same mystery of love, Christ’s Heart poured out for us, and we are sent forth to pour ourselves out for others. Our prayers become compassion. Our sacrifices become hope. Our stewardship becomes a visible sign of God’s mercy in the world.

Saint Teresa of Calcutta once said, “Love, to be real, must cost, it must hurt, it must empty us of self.” Christ revealed the fullness of love by giving all of Himself for us. When we follow His example, we participate in living the anointed life, a life marked by mercy, unity, and love for the good of all.

Across our Diocese, this love is lived out each day:

• In seminarians offering their lives in response to God’s call.
• In retired priests whose years of service have been poured out in love for their people.
• In Catholic Charities workers who meet Christ in the faces of those in need.
• In educators, catechists, and youth ministers planting seeds of faith.
• In every parish where the Eucharist is adored and shared with joy.

I invite you to prayerfully consider your response to this year’s Appeal. Stewardship is not about giving from what remains; it is about giving with our whole heart, from the source of love, from the first fruits of our blessings, in imitation of Christ who gave all.

May our Diocese be a living reflection of Christ’s Heart, a people whose faith is active, whose mercy is visible, and whose love is truly poured out for the Church and for one another.