| The theme chosen for this year’s Diocesan Appeal is “As I have done, so you must do.” (John 13:15) This important message, rooted in a passage from Saint John’s Gospel, during the Last Supper, demonstrates our own calling to serve others and provides a fitting example for the intent of our Annual Appeal.The heartbreaking losses of the catastrophic floods that impacted our parishes, schools and parishioners in 7 of the 11 counties in our Diocese vividly remind us that this year needs are greater than ever.
Mindful of the devastating effects this significant event has had on our parishioners, our neighbors, and our friends, I have adjusted this year’s Appeal and reallocated a portion of the funding to provide direct support to the flood victims. Additionally, any funds collected over our goal will serve the same purpose. As always, the Annual Appeal enables us “to do” for others by enhancing our ability to care for and encourage those who have answered the call to religious life, supporting the education of students in our Diocesan Catholic School System, facilitating religious education programs, strengthening our Parish communities, promoting social justice issues, and communicating the message of the Gospel. I thank you for everything you do for the Diocese and for your parish family. Please be assured of my continued prayers as you reflect on your own response to our calling to serve and on your ability to contribute to this year’s Diocesan Annual Appeal. Faithfully yours in Christ
Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L. Bishop of Scranton |
