Over 42,800 families and individuals — including 14,100 first-time donors — have pledged an unprecedented $10.5 million to-date to fund vital ministries and programs in the Diocese of Arlington’s annual Bishop’s Lenten Appeal (BLA).
The previous benchmark for the 30-year-old campaign was set in 2006 when parishioners pledged $8.9 million.
“I thank everyone who joined me in this appeal. The expression of compassion and concern for others shown through participation in the BLA is a marvelous example of Christ’s love living through us,” said Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde. “The generous support and faithful stewardship of over 40,000 families will have a ripple effect throughout our diocese and impact lives for the better. Together, we will continue to bring hope to those in need — whether these needs are spiritual or material — in our diocese through vital efforts such as Catholic religious education, youth ministry, priestly and religious vocations, and care for the poor.”
Programs supported by the BLA include: vocation awareness and discernment groups; seminarians’ tuition, room and board, and health care; ecumenical outreach, mission parishes in the Dominican Republic, hospital and campus ministries; Spanish apostolate; youth ministry, Catholic schools and religious education programs; the diocesan Office for Family Life; Catholic Charities; and a variety of parish programs.

(c) Copyright 2007 by Arlington Catholic Herald