FALL RIVER — More than 14,000 faithful of the Diocese of Fall River have again answered the call to support the annual Catholic Appeal and propel the work of ministries and apostolates shining the light of Christ to all corners. In doing so they have helped to raise nearly $4.2 million and spread hope to thousands of individuals and families in need, providing sustenance to corporal and spiritual works and strengthening the Church in our region. “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). 

For more than 80 years, this proud history of giving has been a sustaining force. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River (formerly Catholic Social Services), the Secretariat for the New Evangelization, the Office of Pastoral Ministry for the Sick, and the Catholic Schools Office are a few of the benefiting entities. Together, they provide services from addressing hunger and homelessness, to diaconate and seminarian education, to TV Mass offerings for the homebound, to comforting those who are infirm in our area hospitals, to support for retired clergy, to educating the next generation, and more.

In his thanks to donors, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., said, “You play an important role in ensuring our diocesan programs and ministries are ready and able to provide physical, emotional, and spiritual comfort whenever and wherever it is needed.”

Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts CEO Mim Sherman echoed Bishop da Cunha’s remarks.  She shared, “The Catholic Appeal’s donors help to create a beautiful quilt of kindness, opportunity, and compassion each year. Each square represents a tangible difference to be made in the lives of so many and the resources made available through our donors’ generosity. We are both proud and humbled to partner with our priests, parishes, and parishioners each year to create this opportunity for giving as we all come together to advance the Catholic faith in action here in Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.”

In addition to the support of individuals, the Appeal’s cause also has earned the support of organizations and agencies including BayCoast Bank, Bristol County Savings Bank, Cape Cod Healthcare, Fisher Bus Company, Stonehill College, and Sturdy Memorial Hospital.

During the course of the year, the Diocese of Fall River’s many agencies, ministries, and programs strive to meet significant needs; the demand for them remains strong. The faithful may continue to support their brothers and sisters at any time by making a donation through visiting the Appeal’s website at www.catholicfoundationsema.org/appeal/  where they can also learn how to make a gift through an IRA, Donor Advised Fund, or stocks.  Donations via mail can be sent to the Catholic Appeal office at 450 Highland Avenue, Fall River, MA 02720. Donations may also continue to be dropped off at any parish in the Diocese. In this Jubilee Year, the bright beacon of hope continues to shine its light across the Diocese of Fall River.

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
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