Bishops Ministry Appeal
Bishops Ministry Appeal
Your gift to the 2013 Bishop's Ministry Appeal can help make a direct impact on the lives of many through Diocesan ministries such as RCIA, Catholic Schools, Religious Education and the School of Ministry. The Bishop's Ministry Appeal is a source of funds, resources, and proactive services directly supported by the good people of faith in our parish community. These ministries, and the others listed in the 2013 brochure, can only function and prosper with your support.
~ 2013 Bishop's Ministry Appeal Goal: $149,358 ~
How do I make my pledge to the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal?
You will be asked to complete a pledge envelope at Mass on Appeal Weekend. Just fill out the envelope and place it in the collection basket during the Offertory of the Mass on that weekend. Contributions can also be made by contacting the parish office or the Diocese Development office at 209/546-7643.
**New for 2013: Online Giving is available at www.stocktondiocese.org
**New for 2013: Online Giving is available at www.stocktondiocese.org
Answers to Commonly Asked Questions
2013 BISHOP’S MINISTRY APPEAL to Support Diocesan Programs and Services
Why should I feel a responsibility to the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal?
The theme for the 2013 Bishop’s Ministry Appeal is “Passing on the treasure of our faith.” Some of the ministries that help us do this are School of Ministry (provides formation and training for our seminarians, deacons, priests and lay leaders); Catholic schools (provides Catholic education), Religious Education (provides training for catechists to teach our children), RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults), and many other needed services best provided at the diocesan level. As Catholics, we profess the belief that we are part of One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. This belief extends beyond our parish faith community to include both the diocesan church and the universal church. Diocesan ministries and services reach beyond the scope of any individual parish. While regular gifts to your parish are important, your annual gift to your diocese is equally important.
How does the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal benefit my parish and me?
In the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal brochure, there is a list of the programs and services of the Diocese that are funded by the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal. You and thousands of your fellow parishioners are directly or indirectly served through these diocesan programs and services.
How is the money from the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal allocated?
This year’s goal of $2,100,000 provides a large amount of the income required to sustain Diocesan ministries and services. It will cost over $2,500,000 to completely fund the ministries for 2013. It is important to know that 100% of your contribution goes to the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal and not to any other diocesan expenses, including legal fees stemming from the last year’s lawsuit. All of the funds raised over your parish goal will remain at your parish.
How much should I pledge?
Your Bishop’s Ministry Appeal pledge is part of your Christian stewardship of treasure. All families are asked to consider a sacrificial gift to the appeal. First consider the many ways God has blessed you and your loved ones, then make a generous pledge that says how grateful you are for God’s gifts. Gifts of all sizes are appreciated, but for gifts of $1,000 or more, you will be included in a special group of dedicated and committed Catholics throughout the Diocese. One of the benefits for participants is an invitation for a special Mass
and reception for you and your pastor.
Why are pledges encouraged, instead of one-time donations?
Pledges provide parishioners with the opportunity to increase your sacrificial gift to the mission of the Church by spreading their donations over an eight-month period.
What payment methods can I use to make my pledge?
Pledges paid by monthly installments over an eight-month period by credit card or direct debit (direct charge) to your checking or savings account. Donors choosing Electronic Funds Transfers will have their credit cards or checking accounts charged on or about the 20th of the month that payment is due. One time payments can be paid by check or credit card or direct debit to your checking or savings account.
