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Countless people served through the generous support of the 2017 Bishop’s Lenten Appeal

Special To The Catholic Herald

The theme for the 2017 Bishop’s Lenten Appeal (BLA), “Offering
Hands to Serve and Hearts to Love,” was exemplified through the tremendous
outpouring of support from more than 44,000 parish households that responded to
the appeal with pledges totaling more than $18,750,000 to assist countless
people across our diocese.

“I am uplifted and inspired by the kindness of the faithful
throughout the diocese as reflected in 
our annual diocesan appeal,” said Bishop Michael F. Burbidge. “Their
generosity makes it possible to reach out to the peripheries of our diocese and
bring the mercy and compassion of God and the truth of the Gospel! I pray that
each person who gives to the BLA knows of my sincere appreciation for all of
your goodness.”

The BLA ensures that the diocese will continue to be served by
dedicated priests, religious and lay persons who carry out the pastoral
programs and ministries of parishes and the diocese. Donations to the BLA
support an array of important ministries and offices, including: Vocations,
Catholic Charities, Catholic Schools, Religious Education, Youth Ministry,
Family Life and many others. See the Diocesan Annual Report in next week’s
edition of the Catholic Herald for a list of all
programs and ministries funded by the BLA.

Furthermore, the diocese was blessed to receive a challenge gift,
which matched increases in 2017 BLA pledges with an equal donation of up to
$400,000. More than a third of the households who participated in the 2017 BLA
increased their gift, which helped the diocese to achieve the full amount of
the challenge gift. This additional $400,000 was directed to the Catholic
Charities Endowment and the Diocesan Tuition Assistance Endowment, which
together assist hundreds of needy families each year.

The 2018 BLA mailing will be sent to 115,000 households in the
diocese in mid-January and will feature the theme “Living in Faith + Giving in
Gratitude.” The 2018 BLA will seek prayerful reflection and support from all
parishioners to continue the works of charity and outreach funded by this
critical appeal.

Find out more

Contact the BLA office at 703/841-2570.

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