Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde and many priests and sisters participated in the diocesan donor appreciation Mass and dinner held at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington last Saturday.

"I once again want to express to you our gratitude for your generous support, which enhances our programs on behalf of those most in need of help," said Bishop Loverde before blessing the dinner.

Nearly 80 people gathered in Burke Hall for the meal, organized by the Office of Stewardship and Development.

Previously, the bishop told donors that because of their past generosity, Catholic Charities was able to provide critical services to those in need –from emergency assistance, family counseling, aid to the elderly and disabled, crisis pregnancy counseling, adoption assistance, immigration services and prison ministry, among other programs.

However, "the need remains great. Your sacrificial gift is vital if we are to continue, as a diocesan family of faith, to help the poor and vulnerable in our midst, to offer education for poor families," he said.

Bill Soltesz, a parishioner from St. Theresa Parish in Ashburn, agreed that diocesan needs are bigger today.

"Our diocese has been growing dramatically, so the needs increase. Our responsibility as parishioners and donors is to respond to the new demands," he said.

"Given the recent arrival of thousands of immigrants, I see our diocese as a big tent where everyone must be welcomed," Soltesz said.

Bishop Loverde was assisted during the Mass by Father Robert J. Rippy, Cathedral rector; Father Frank Ready, vicar general for pastoral services; Father Donald J. Rooney, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Fredericksburg; Father David Whitestone, administrator of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Arlington; and Father Richard Mullins, director of the Multicultural Ministry. Brother David S. Eddy, C.F.X., also participated in the service.

Sisters from Our Lady of La Salette in Fairfax helped with the reception, where musician Scott Solak played the piano.