In annual appeal, Bishop speaks of building up Body of Christ

The Diocese’s shepherd is asking the faithful to help ensure the vitality of ministries that build up the Catholic community of South Jersey.

“Our Catholic faith teaches us the importance of service and invites each of us to serve as Jesus did. Now, it is our turn to meet the challenges of our time, to make a difference in the lives of those in need and ensure that the faith we have received flourishes into the future,” Bishop Dennis J. Sullivan says in a video for this year’s House of Charity-Bishop’s Annual Appeal, which has as its theme “From Many … One Body.”

“The theme of this year … reminds us that we share a common vision,” he explains, adding that an individual’s contribution “will become one of many that unites and builds up the one Body of Christ.”

Katie Comerford-Rivera, associate director of the diocesan Office of Development, echoed the Bishop’s sentiments, calling donors “valuable pieces” in helping form “One Body.” In supporting the annual appeal, donors’ funds go toward diocesan ministries including vocations; faith formation; Hispanic and Black Catholic ministries; youth and young adults; Catholic education, and more. Donors can give online or by check; there are also opportunities for employer matches and stock gifts. Visit camdendiocese.org/hoc/ to donate to the 2022 House of Charity and for more information.

“Every dollar counts and is instrumental in the Diocese’s mission” to serve God’s people, Comerford-Rivera says.

The House of Charity campaign officially began the weekend of Feb. 12-13, with priests across the Diocese speaking to their parishioners from the pulpit. In-pew materials were also available.

After raising $6.3 million toward a $7 million goal in the 2021 campaign, the Diocese has kept the $7 million goal for 2022. Last year, 24 of the Diocese’s 62 parishes reached and/or surpassed their goal. Parishes that reach their goal receive a 10 percent rebate; parishes receive 75 percent of every dollar raised over goal. Those rebates go toward parish needs, such as ministries, programs and maintenance. Last year’s rebates, to date, have totaled $215,000 with more to be distributed in April.

Comerford-Rivera is hopeful that parishioners, especially as they return to in-person Masses after COVID-19, will continue to bring with them a generous spirit.

“Donations, no matter how big or small, make a big difference,” she says.