Dear Donor,

As we embark on our 2025 Catholic Service Appeal with the theme "Hope Rising," we reflect on the many sources of hope in our lives. Isaiah tells us that the world was shrouded in darkness until the Messiah brought us out, giving us hope. As Catholics, our hope is renewed through the scriptures and the Eucharist.

During the recent Eucharistic Congress, I witnessed Catholics from across the nation united in prayer—a life-changing experience for many pilgrims walking with the Lord.  This powerful event underscored our shared journey of faith and hope in the Eucharistic Lord in the Church throughout the world.

Pope Francis continues to inspire us with his message of hope in his Papal Bull, SPES NON CONFUNDIT, meaning "Hope Does Not Disappoint." On December 24, we began the Ordinary Jubilee of Hope with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica, and this special year of grace and favor will conclude on December 28, 2025. Pope Francis writes, “The Holy Spirit illuminates all believers with the light of hope. He keeps that light burning, like an ever-burning lamp, to sustain and invigorate our lives, founded on faith, and nurtured by charity.”

You have been that illuminating light, providing hope through your support of the annual Catholic Service Appeal. I want to thank you for your prayers and contributions to our past Appeals. Together, we are on a journey of hope keeping the Eucharist as the light in our hearts.

Your participation will help your parish achieve its financial and participation goals for the 2025 Appeal. I, too, am participating and giving to be in solidarity with our diocesan vision.  Every gift, regardless of size, makes a difference, bringing hope to those we serve, strengthening our Catholic faith, and helping your parish reach its goal.

I invite you to consider your gift to the annual Catholic Service Appeal once again. Please join me and the other families in your parish in giving. Will you please share the blessings God has given you by making a gift this year?

Your generosity brings light and hope to the lives of our clergy through the ministry of Clergy Healthcare and Assistance. Your gift helps provide health insurance, assistance with out-of-pocket medical expenses, and supplemental long-term care for our active priests, retired priests, and seminarians. In return, they care for our spiritual needs. Please read more about this ministry in the enclosed brochure.

The brochure also shares stories from four ministries for which your support brings light and hope. The Catholic Service Appeal supports a total of fourteen ministries, essential to our Catholic faith and impossible for one parish to support alone. Together, however, we make a significant difference. Visit our Supported Ministries Page to see how your support impacts each of these ministries.

Pope Francis writes that signs of hope are needed. I ask that you be one of those signs of hope—an ever-burning lamp that lights the way for others.

May God continue to bless you, your family, and all parishioners in our diocese.

Yours In Christ,

Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz

P.S. Your support is not just a donation; it is a beacon of hope that shines brightly in our community. Please consider making your gift to the Catholic Service Appeal and be a part of this journey of faith and hope. Together, we can make a lasting impact. Thank you for your generosity.