Generosity Funded Hope, Comfort, and Counsel
In 2011 the annual Partners in Charity appeal ended the year’s campaign on August 31, 2011 after having raised $4,724,352. The total represents nearly 95% of its $5 million goal and was only slightly below last year’s (2010) total of $4,804,925.
“The challenges of this economy are felt in every corner of our diocese by our parishioners,” said Most Reverend Robert J. McManus, Bishop of Worcester. “I ask our pastors to join me in a prayer of thanksgiving for the many sacrifices our donors have made and continue to make in order to support the ongoing charitable, educational and pastoral works which rely on this annual appeal.”
The bishop continued, “Although the needs which we must face in these agencies and ministries will continue to be great, with God’s help I am confident that the Catholic Church will bring hope to those who turn to our diocesan programs over the coming year."
Michael Gillespie, director of the Office of Stewardship and Development as of July 2011, offered his thanks to the people of the diocese and to the pastors who direct the parish appeals. “I also want to thank last year’s diocesan chair couple, John and Mary Lou Anderson, who helped us communicate the need for this appeal so effectively throughout Central Massachusetts,” added Mr. Gillespie.
Gillespie reflects on how the appeal helps those in need. “Through the generosity to this annual campaign, the Diocese of Worcester remains able to assist those experiencing hardships; provide hope, comfort and counsel to those in crisis; furnish the funds necessary for the formation of future priests and deacons for our parishes; maintain excellent Catholic schools while assisting many students with financial help and inspire our children and adults to embrace our Catholic faith through religious education.”
The director continued, “Our heavenly patron for the 2012 Annual Appeal will be Blessed John Paul II, and the theme of the campaign will be “Open wide the doors to Christ,” words that the late Holy Father spoke repeatedly during his pontificate. Bishop McManus will be mailing out to all supporters of the appeal a brochure and a letter announcing this year’s campaign. Packets should arrive no later than the March 1.