Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

The theme for this year’s Annual Diocesan Appeal centers on the words BELONG, BELIEVE and BESTOW.

We BELONG to the church and thus are called to be co-workers and collaborators in the vineyard of the Lord. In parishes throughout our diocese, selfless acts of service are given every day by parishioners.

We have catechists teaching the Catholic faith to the young, choirs enhancing the liturgy of the Sunday Eucharist, mentors helping catechumens prepare for the sacraments of initiation at Easter, sponsor couples accompanying those preparing for the sacrament of matrimony and countless others involved in a myriad of ministries in our parishes.

Through the support of those who contribute to the Annual Diocesan Appeal each year, parish ministers and volunteers can rely on the assistance and expertise of the staff members of our diocesan offices. Offices such as Catholic Education Ministries, the Office of Worship and the Office of Marriage and Family provide resources for our parishes — services individual parishes could not achieve on their own.

Thus, the faith of our people is constantly built up and our parish life is enhanced. As a result we, the people of God, do BELIEVE.

Heartfelt thanks
Recently, a young couple shared with me how much they were enriched in faith through the pre-marriage course offered by our Office of Marriage and Family. Both felt better prepared spiritually, emotionally and even financially to face the realities of married life. As they celebrated their first anniversary, they reflected on how much they had received because of this formation and solid preparation before marriage.

Each Sunday, the televised Mass reaches countless shut-ins in our Diocese. Videos of the TV Mass are mailed to nursing homes and cable stations so that those who must rely on this service can receive it weekly. I receive many heartwarming letters from homebound viewers who are unable to attend the Eucharist, expressing their deep appreciation for this opportunity to pray with the church.

It is with a humble and grateful heart that I thank all of you who so willingly BESTOW your gifts, whether great or small, to our diocese for the building of the Kingdom of God in our midst. Your financial gifts reach much further than you ever imagine, enriching countless lives throughout our diocese each year.

Again this year, I ask you to join me in supporting our Annual Diocesan Appeal. Your generous contribution will help accomplish the work the Holy Spirit prompts all of us to do. BELONG, BELIEVE, BESTOW.

May God bless and guide you as you prayerfully consider your response.
Thank you.

+John F. Kinney
Bishop of St. Cloud