In the Office of Development, we witness daily the incredible generosity of donors.
This generosity comes in the form of pledge cards and donations to the South Jersey Catholic Ministries Appeal, electronic donations to our online giving platform, email notification about stock gifts, and more. Behind all the gifts we receive are wonderful people who give loyally to the Diocese of Camden and its ministries – ministries that support the spiritual, physical and emotional needs of hundreds of thousands throughout the region.
We are always grateful for these faithful men and women, and to celebrate, diocesan leadership, clergy and the Office of Development come together with donors at the Diocesan Benefactors Reception. This annual event honors donors of $1,500 or more per year with an evening full of hors d’oeuvres, socializing and music. This year’s event was held Nov. 19 at the Sapphire Grand, formerly Auletto Caterers, in Deptford.
The 250 guests we – including Bishop Dennis Sullivan and Coadjutor Bishop Joseph Williams – visited with during the reception support fundraising efforts such as the South Jersey Catholic Ministries Appeal; Catholic Strong Campaign; Catholic Charities of South Jersey and the Catholic Charities’ Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony; and the South Jersey Scholarship Fund.
Bishop Dennis Sullivan thanked supporters, saying, “I am very proud to be your bishop, and I love you very much. I deeply express my gratitude to each one of you for the extra support you give in the annual appeal. That makes the ministries happen. That makes the Church visible.”
“You make it possible for other people to grow in Christ, live decent lives, get the right help when they need the right help,” he said, adding that their generosity also makes possible the mission of South Jersey Catholic Schools.
Dr. Maria Elena Hallion, executive director of Catholic Charities, also thanked those in attendance, explaining the organization’s mission and the difference financial support makes.
In addition, 10 donors were inducted into giving societies. Two individuals were inducted into the Society of Saint Katherine Drexel, which recognizes those with a lifetime giving of $100,000 or more. Eight donors were inducted into the Society of Seraphim, for those with $50,000 of giving over the years.
“We thank you for your enduring faith and commitment to our Diocese. Your legacy is one of love, service and generosity,” said Jennifer Lon, associate director of development.
The event was made possible through a kind donation from the new owners of the Sapphire Grand, carrying on the tradition established by Jim Auletto.
To learn more about the Diocese of Camden’s ministries and how to become a supporter, visit camdendiocese.org/development.
Stacy Napolitano is the director of the diocesan Office of Development.
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