July 3, 2008

By Pam Flynn

Managing Editor

The 2008 Bishop's Appeal is well underway and 7,474 families have contributed. While the progress thus far is good, there is still much to do to reach the $2.4 million goal set by Bishop J. Terry Steib, S.V.D. for this year. Additional prayers and pledges are still needed to make the year a success.

As of July 1, the appeal has generated $2,243,870 in gifts and pledges. 35 parishes in the diocese have exceeded 90 percent or more of their goal. This year's Appeal calls on every Catholic in the diocese to participate through gifts and prayer as One Faith, One Family.

2008 Bishop's Appeal chairman, Father Ernie DeBlasio said, "We are off to a great start! The people of our diocese are truly a people of compassion and generosity. I am confident that together we can make sure that our goal will be met. I ask the people of our diocese to come forth with pledges and prayers to assure the success of the Appeal."

People throughout West Tennessee rely on the Catholic Church for help and assistance through more than 60 services and programs that are sponsored by the Diocese of Memphis. These ministries provide the means necessary for those who need help to get back on their feet, or have the quality education needed for a better future for their children, or the training and ministry workshops necessary for building stronger faith communities, or the formation required for preparing strong leadership in our clergy, young people and laity alike. This diocesan-wide Appeal is important because so much of what is accomplished by the diocesan Church depends on this vital resource.

"As a diocese, we can be proud," said Bishop Steib. "We can be proud of our dedication, our generosity and our good works for the ones in need. The Bishop's Appeal is more than a simple fundraiser; it is a way to be a part of the greater good, to serve others and to love our neighbors. I ask you to join me and the entire Diocese of Memphis in our mission to follow Christ's example of love and service."

The Bishop's Appeal allows the Diocese of Memphis to continue the mission to minister to people educationally, spiritually and socially. In order to accomplish this tremendous task, the diocese needs the generosity and prayers of every Catholic family, every Catholic organization and community served by the diocese, as well as every person who, with a grateful heart, wishes to share something of themselves with others who are in need.

Revenue generated via the Bishop's Appeal funds both immediate and ongoing needs of the diocese. The Diocese of Memphis is fortunate to be able to provide so many services and to minister to so many people.

For more information about the 2008 Bishop's Appeal, call 901-373-1208 or visit www.cdom.org.