More than 15,000 donors support the work of the Diocese of Fall River

FALL RIVER—The 82nd Catholic Appeal, “Do This in Memory of Me,” has closed with the annual campaign raising $4.5 million to support the work of the Church across the Diocese of Fall River. In the midst of an extremely challenging economic environment, more than 15,000 individual donors made gifts and pledges to sustain the Appeal’s longstanding mission of serving those in greatest need.

The success of this year’s Appeal is a testament to the commitment of the faithful of the diocese to help those in great need. It is also a strong sign of how parishioners stand collectively to uphold the teachings of the Church by serving as the hands and feet of Christ here on Earth.

“I am filled with gratitude to see the number of households across the Diocese of Fall River who came forward in support of the Catholic Appeal,” said Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V.  “Each and every contribution, large and small, adds up to create real and beautiful changes in thousands of lives. When we do something good for someone in their moment of need, God sees it – and rewards us in so many beautiful ways. I pray that everyone who donated to the Appeal is blessed immeasurably, and for the Holy Spirit to renew us as a diocesan family.”

Even amid challenging economic times, 35 of the 70 parishes in the diocese – one half of all parishes – surpassed their 2022 fundraising total this year.

“This year in honor of our Appeal theme, we invited everyone to think of a special individual whose example of loving generosity and faith made a difference in their lives, and to give in remembrance or in honor of that person (or people),” said Miriam Finn Sherman, Chief Executive Officer of the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts. “The response to this call to action was nothing short of amazing. Thousands of our donors named parents, grandparents, beloved priests and religious who left an indelible and important mark upon them. What better reminder that none of us can do it alone – and our lives are always made better by the love, care, and support of others. I am inspired every day by our incredible donors!”

In addition to the individual parish totals, nearly $900,000 in gifts to the 2023 Catholic Appeal was collected from friends and supporters consisting of individuals, corporations, and organizations unaffiliated with a specific parish.

There is still time to watch this year’s Catholic Appeal video featuring the work made possible throughout the diocese thanks to donations to the Appeal. The full-length video can be viewed at www.catholicfoundationsema.org/video-gallery. The Catholic Foundation website also includes a series of “Ministry Moment” videos focused on individual diocesan programs.

The need for support of the many agencies, ministries, and programs of the Diocese of Fall River, and the demand for them, remains strong. The Catholic Foundation encourages the faithful to show their support of our brothers and sisters in need throughout the year. Donations can be made online at any time at givefrdiocese.org or mailed to the Catholic Appeal office at 450 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720. They may also continue to be dropped off at any parish in the Diocese.

The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Bishop of Fall River