This year’s theme, “Let It Begin with Me,” speaks directly to the call of the Gospel. It reminds us that the mission of the Church begins not somewhere else, but with each of us—through prayer, generosity, and a commitment to serve one another. At the heart of this theme is peace: peace in our hearts, peace in our families, peace in our communities, and peace in our world.

Let there be peace on earth.
Let it begin with me.
Let it begin with YOU.
Let it begin with ALL of us.

FALL RIVER — Each year, the Catholic Appeal of the Diocese of Fall River stands as a vital source of support for ministries and apostolates serving southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Islands. Sustained by the generosity of thousands of faithful donors, the Appeal continues a long-standing mission of strengthening the Church’s work and extending Christ’s love to those in need.

Now in its 85th year, the Appeal builds upon a tradition dating back to 1942, providing essential funding for programs that assist individuals and families across the region. From food pantries and emergency shelters to faith formation, campus ministry, care for the sick and so much more, the impact of the Appeal is both far-reaching and deeply personal.

This year’s theme, “Peace: Let it Begin with Me,” calls the faithful to reflect on their individual role in advancing the mission of the Church through prayer, generosity, and service. In his message announcing the Appeal, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., invites all to embrace that responsibility.

“Together, let us take responsibility for caring for one another and for advancing the mission entrusted to us,” Bishop da Cunha said. “May peace truly begin with each of us.”

In a video message the Bishop highlights the “powerful programs and services” made possible through the Appeal.

The Catholic Appeal helps to make that peace visible and active through the ministries that accompany the sick and elderly, support families, educate and from clergy and lay leaders, and respond to those struggling with poverty, isolation, or uncertainty. These ministries, he notes, are sustained by gifts of all sizes, each one contributing to the Church’s ability to respond to both corporal and spiritual needs throughout the Diocese.

Miriam Finn Sherman, CEO of The Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts, which oversees the Appeal, emphasized the significance of this shared mission.

“The Catholic Appeal is a beacon of hope for our Diocese, shining a light on so many vital ministries and helping to make both corporal and spiritual works happen,” she said. “Each year it is humbling to see the amazing response of donors who give so generously.”

Last year, more than 14,000 donors supported the Appeal and together raised nearly $4.2 million to sustain a wide range of ministries helping to build a stronger Church and more compassionate community. Consider making a donation and helping to continue the success of this critical initiative again this year.

To learn more about the Catholic Appeal, view videos highlighting your donation making an impact, or make a gift, visit the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts website at https://www.catholicfoundationsema.org/appeal

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
Office of Communications