Catholic Strong donors surpass $20 million paid

The following is a report from Mariann Gilbride, Director of Development, Diocese of Camden:

We are very excited to share that our parishioners have been very supportive in making their sacrificial payments on their pledges to the tune of more than $20 million collected to date. Although the historic Catholic Strong campaign completed its solicitations nearly a year ago, the active redemption of pledges continues and will continue for another four years before the project is considered complete. Parishes that started their campaigns in the first block in 2017 are about halfway through their redemptions. Those in the last block completed their solicitations in 2019 so their redemptions will continue into 2024.

And we are so grateful! Our parishes are getting healthier due to these generous gifts. Yet, for some, this is a difficult time, and they are in our prayers. We know that some donors may be struggling with financial issues right now. For those who are, pledge schedules can be easily adjusted, while programs and services that can assist at this time can be shared as well. To make use of these options, donors may contact the Development Office.

Collectively, our parishes have received over $10 million as of December of 2019 for use toward their Catholic Strong restricted projects. This month the next scheduled disbursement will be made to each parish bringing the totals to more than $13 Million for their particular needs. Pastors should monitor their diocesan email addresses for an upcoming memo about their specific funds this month. Questions about these amounts can be directed to Mariann Gilbride, Director of Development, at 856-583-6134 or by email at Mariann.Gilbride@camdendiocese.org. Questions about how to use these funds for the specific projects approved for the campaign can be directed to Father Robert Hughes, Vicar General.