Today in parishes throughout the Diocese of Joliet the Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA) is announced. The theme of this year’s appeal is “Signs of Hope.” This appeal funds the many ministries coordinated by the Diocese of Joliet that serve all our parishes in the seven county Diocese of Joliet as well as the administrative offices that are necessary to operate as a Diocese. Our Diocesan Chief Development Officer, Tony Brandilino shares the following message: “Thanks to the many generous donors to the Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal, our diocese is filled with signs of hope. I see signs of hope when I visit the Daybreak Shelter and Shepherd’s Table and witness Catholic Charities helping those in our community most in need. I see signs of hope in our newly ordained priests, who are assisting Bishop Conlon in his mission to build the Kingdom of God here on earth. I see signs of hope in the many men and women answering the Lord’s call to vocations in the priesthood, permanent diaconate and religious life. I see signs of hope when I visit our Catholic schools, where thousands of young people learn Church teachings alongside their standard subjects and attend Mass with their friends and teachers. I also see signs of hope in our parishes, which recognize Jesus in the diverse faces of our Church’s membership today and ensure everyone is invited to worship at the Lord’s table. Finally, I see signs of hope in the people I meet with who have become friends – Catholics who give what they are able, from their hearts, to support the Church, knowing that Bishop Conlon and his staff members will be good stewards of their gifts to the CMAA. Every gift is important to the success of the CMAA. Each pledge helps us reach our goal of $8.2 million – and allows us to provide signs of hope to so many through the 30 ministries our annual appeal supports.”

Once again this year, I ask your support for the CMAA. Our parish goal this year is $133,400.00. Last year we surpassed our parish goal and received a $22,000 rebate from the Diocese which went back to the parish operating fund to support programs like ALPHA and Religious Education. Please be a person of hope by supporting the Diocesan Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal.

Last weekend you heard an invitation to participate in the “Christ Renews His Parish” (CRHP) retreat weekend. Those who have attended CRHP in the past speak of their wonderful experience and deepening relationship with God. I encourage you, if you haven’t made the CRHP renewal weekend retreat to prayerfully consider doing it this year! The fraternal support after the renewal weekend will enrich your life. The Men’s weekend is April 6 & 7. The Women’s weekend is April 13 & 14. Check the parish website for more information and to register.

Have a blessed week!

Fr Don