84th Catholic Appeal Kicks Off and Hope Lights the Way

Across the Diocese of Fall River since 1942, the Catholic Appeal has served as a bedrock of support for the Catholic faith in the region and countless good works aiding thousands of individuals and families each year. In the video message to his “Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ” announcing this year’s Catholic Appeal, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., reminds the faithful of the Diocese of Fall River about the “powerful programs and services” that the Appeal supports. These vital ministries, providing food, shelter, education, faith formation, support for priests and parishes, and more are made possible thanks to contributions from thousands of donors who heed the call to give. These gifts of all sizes provide sustenance and support across southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Islands. 

Donors to the Appeal and recipients of the many ministries that its funds support are both tied to the power of hope. As this year’s theme reminds us, Hope Lights the Way: “They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

Miriam Finn Sherman, CEO of the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts that manages the Appeal’s fundraising efforts, shared, “The Catholic Appeal is a beacon of hope for our diocese, shining a light on so many vital ministries and helping to make both corporeal and spiritual works happen. Each year it is humbling to see the amazing response of donors who give so generously.”

This year’s goal is to raise $5 million to help fuel areas including basic needs assistance, food pantries, emergency shelters, ministry to the sick, campus ministry, faith formation and educational programs, and a variety of additional pastoral endeavors. New this year is a Parish Incentive Program that will reward those parishes whose parishioners respond strongly to the call for support.  The winning parishes will be determined by the percentage of parishioners who contribute to the 84^th Catholic Appeal. Within each Deanery, the top three performing parishes will receive awards as follows: 1^st Place; $5,000; 2^nd Place: $3,000; and 3^rd Place: $2,000

The awards are unrestricted—the parish may determine how to spend its award in any way to benefit the parish.

• For more information and to make a gift, please visit Catholic Appeal’s giving page: catholicfoundationsema.org/appeal/

• For more information or for any questions, please call 508-617-5305 or email giving@catholicfoundationsema.org

Diocese of Fall River

Office of Communications

FR Diocese