As we continue to embrace our call to live as “Lifelong Catholic Missionary Disciples Through God’s Love, we are also given the opportunity to celebrate “One Faith, One Family” in this year’s Catholic Family Sharing Appeal (CFSA). This year’s CFSA is an opportunity for the faithful across our diocese to participate in the broader mission of the Church, supporting vital programs that nurture faith, serve those in need, and prepare future generations of Catholics to carry forward Christ’s message.

“It is more blessed to give than receive.” (Acts 20:35)

St. Pope John Paul II wrote, “All that we have received from God—life itself as well as material goods—does not belong to us but is given to us for our use. Generosity in giving must always be enlightened and inspired by faith: then we will truly be more blessed in giving than in receiving.”

We are called to acknowledge the love and care of our generous Creator and love him by loving our neighbor as he loves us. Participating in the Catholic Family Sharing Appeal with prayers and financial support has a direct impact on our neighbors, our families and God’s people across our diocese. As you consider your gift to the 2025 Catholic Family Sharing Appeal, take time to reflect on the following points:

• Thanksgiving – our offering is a grateful response to the immense love God has shown for us. God is first in our lives. We are only responding to what God has already done for us.
• Sacrificial – To “sacrifice” means to make sacred, not to give until it hurts. Through sacrificial giving “we make sacred” the work of our daily lives. Praying about our decision is necessary to truly offer it from the heart.
• Prayerfully Planned – This is a decision that requires prayer, thought and time. We are not called to give merely what we have left over but we are called to prayerfully consider our gifts and resources