Dear Pastor and Parish Leaders, We are pleased to provide the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal Parish Leadership Guide. Enclosed you will find a timetable of solicitations and promotions, a summary of funded program areas, and suggested pulpit announcements. With your leadership and the appointment Bishop Frank Caggiano we have an exciting Annual Bishop s Appeal planned this year. This year s theme is Building Bridges in Faith and Charity which focuses on his installation message. We ask you to make use of all the materials and suggestions in the Leadership Guide. Please be sure to display your posters and banner and show the Appeal DVD at a reception or after Mass. This year s suggested In-Pew weekends are April 5th & 6th, May 17th & 18th and June 7 th & 8 th. Thank you again on behalf of the Development staff. We look forward to assisting you with the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal, Building Bridges in Faith and Charity. Sincerely, William McLean, Jr. Chief Development Officer Pamela Rittman Director, Annual Bishop s Appeal [1]
Table of Contents Introduction.1 ABA Prayer...3 ABA Contact Information...4 Appeal Timetable....5 Allocation of 2014 Appeal Funds...7 Parish Incentive Program... 8 2014 Appeal Parish Committee.. 9 Parish Speaker Program...16 Matching Gifts...17 In-Pew Weekends...... 19 In Pew Processing Instructions...26 Parish Receptions..28 Pulpit Announcements..33 [2]
2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal Prayer Father, you have blessed our minds and hands to do your work, and as we gather, we seek your guidance in planning for the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal. In it we want to faithfully serve you by building a bridge of hope to those in need, in our parishes, schools, communities, and with our clergy and religious. We pray you will enlighten us in ways to secure the means to provide for others. We pray that each ministry will fulfill and restore individuals. For those who are away from the Church, we pray the Holy Spirit will draw them to you. For those who lack, we pray they will be filled. We ask for your blessings on our parishioners and donors who give freely from their hearts and respond to God s call of caring for their neighbor. We thank you in Jesus name. Amen. [3]
Annual Bishop's Appeal Contact Information For all questions about the Annual Bishop's Appeal, please contact the Office of Development, 238 Jewett Avenue, Bridgeport, CT. William McLean Pam Rittman Chief Development Officer Director, Annual Bishop's Appeal Diocese of Bridgeport Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 Bridgeport, CT 06606 203-416-1473 203-416-1479 wmclean@diobpt.org prittman@diobpt.org Internet Resources All information for the Appeal including the video, brochure, Pastors' Leadership Guide, Pulpit/Bulletin and weekly announcements can be viewed on The Bridge under the Development section on the Diocesan website at www.bridgeportdiocese.com. [4]
APPEAL TIMETABLE Month Target Audience Mailing Promotions January 2014 Past donors Bishop Leader Donors General Donors 2013 tax statement Personal visit and letter solicitation from Bishop Request letter from Bishop with brochure Feature article in Fairfield County Catholic February 2014 Solicit all families in database who have not gifted Request letter from pastor Solicit all families in database who have not gifted Feature article in Fairfield County Catholic Pastors, Parochial Vicars, ABA Volunteers ABA Kick-off and Reception March 2014 Solicit all families in database who have not gifted Solicitation Letter from Chair Couple Thank you letters and pledge reminderd Feature article in Fairfield County Catholic with envelope Weekly Bulletin/Pulpit Announcements Speakers [5]
Month Target Audience Mailing Promotions Thank you letters and pledge reminders Speakers in parishes In-Pew Sunday April 2014 Solicit Past Donors Request letter from Bishop Feature article in Fairfield County Catholic with envelope Weekly pulpit announcements Solicit all families in database who have not given Thank you letters and pledge reminders Speakers in parishes In-Pew Sunday May 2014 Request letters from Pastors Phone Calls Feature article in Fairfield County Catholic with envelope Weekly pulpit announcements June 2014 Solicit Past Donors Postcard Thank you letters and pledge reminders Postcard to donors June 30 th 2013 Appeal ends In-Pew Sunday Feature article in Fairfield County Catholic with envelope Phone Calls [6]
ALLOCATION OF $11.5 MILLION GOAL Catholic Charities..$1,250,000 Formation of Priests and Deacons...$1,917,000 Care of Retired Priests.$1,000,000 Catholic Schools. $1,760,000 Hospital Ministries....$ 375,000 Inner-City Catholic Elementary Schools. $ 667,000 Clergy Ministries $1,548,000 Fairfield County Catholic..$ 500,000 Finance and Accounting Services for Parishes $ 460,000 Pastoral Services. $ 893,000 *A portion of the funds raised through the Annual Bishop s Appeal are used to fund its cost and total less than 9 cents on the dollar raised. [7]
PARISH INCENTIVE PROGRAM The Parish Incentive Program is designed to encourage parishes to exceed their 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal goal and direct funds towards capital repairs, parish improvements and other parish needs. The Parish Incentive Program is based on funds redeemed, not pledges received. Highlights: Please note the Diocese needs to reach the $11.5 million goal in cash before the program is activated. We must ensure that funding for ministries is secured before directing funds back to parishes. Parishes will receive 40% of funds received in excess of their parish goal, irrespective of the number of donors participating. Parishes will receive an additional 10% of funds received in excess of their parish goal if the number of donors increases by 3% over the prior year, bringing the total to 50%. If a 2013 donor to the parish becomes a prospect on the Bishop s list, the parish will receive credit in 2014 for an amount equal to the 2013 pledge, if the donor contributes at least that amount in 2014. The parish will receive public recognition for a combination of both parish and pledges received through the efforts of the Bishop. [8]
2014 APPEAL PARISH COMMITTEE We encourage your parish to recruit a small 2014 Appeal Parish Committee to encourage parishioners to participate in the 2014 Appeal. The Development Office will work closely with your committee to maximize their time and efforts. Specifically, the role of the 2014 Appeal Parish Committee will include: Appointing a Chair; Hosting a small gathering to highlight the Annual Bishop s Appeal; Assisting the Pastor with follow-up phone calls or mailings to potential donors; \ Encouraging participation during In-Pew Weekends; Speaking from the pulpit about the Appeal and; Offering guidance in promoting the Appeal in the parish. The Development Office will assist the 2014 Appeal Parish Committee with tailored materials for their parish Appeal. [9]
Sample Script for 2014 Appeal Parish Committee at Mass: Hello, my name is. I have agreed to serve on our Parish Appeal Committee for the 2014 Building Bridges in Faith and Charity Annual Bishop s Appeal. The funding that you so generously provide during this Appeal is essential for the many services delivered across the Diocese through Catholic Charities, educational services for thousands of children in our Catholic schools, and many other activities benefitting our parishes and communities. Last year alone: Catholic Charities delivered over 1.5 million meals to the needy and vulnerable of Fairfield County through four major food programs. These include Morning Glory Breakfast in Danbury; The Thomas Merton Campus in Bridgeport, which offers a soup kitchen and food pantry; and New Covenant House of Hospitality, the only soup kitchen in Stamford serving several meals daily, 365 days a year, and a food pantry serving working poor families. The Stamford location also includes an after-school meal program for an average 200 children per day. The Senior Nutrition Program, the only elderly nutrition program in the Stamford region provides both congregate and homedelivered meals. In addition to improving the lives of countless individuals and families across the Diocese through food and nutrition programs, Catholic Charities offers a network of other programs and services with a track record of helping thousands to overcome financial and personal [10]
hardship. These include a Behavioral Health Program, which offers a full range of outpatient psychiatric services to individuals and families with a strong focus on children. Just last year, 15,000 counseling sessions including significant on the ground support for the residents of Newtown after the December 14 th tragedy were provided. Catholic Charities offers an Immigration services program in Bridgeport and Stamford, to assist a growing immigrant population with assimilation, integration, and compliance with immigration law. The agency also offers multiple housing, community support and outreach programs for the disabled, the medically fragile, the formerly homeless, and the working poor to help them become and remain independent. Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport have developed a strong Pre-K through Grade 12 curriculum that exceeds state and national standards. Ten core gospel values are infused across all curriculum areas. Diocesan Catholic Schools strive to integrate Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) throughout all the areas of the curriculum. Each academic quarter, schools focus on the integration of these skills and the specific content area. Technology is an integral tool which enhances teaching and learning. [11]
Professional Development provides administrators and teachers with best practices in their field and opportunities to set measurable goals for academic excellence. More than 50% of Diocesan elementary schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport have received the prestigious Blue Ribbon Award from the U.S. Department of Education. This recognizes schools in the U.S. whose students achieve in the top 10% in the nation. The Pastoral Services Religious Education Program reaches over 38,000 children and young adults each year. Adult education in the Diocese includes the St. Cyril of Jerusalem Program, an educational course on the Catholic Faith available at every parish or at www.scoj.org. It is also available in Spanish. A partnership with Sacred Heart University called S.H.A.R.E. (Sacred Heart Adult Religious Education for the Diocese of Bridgeport) offers a pastoral certificate in Catholic studies. Last year 90 adults received the Sacrament of Confirmation through Adult Confirmation. The Ministry for People with Disabilities offers a full program for individuals and families and includes: sacramental preparation and catechesis; an adult social and formation club called Sister Margaret Mary Faith Club; an annual Bible camp; an apostolate for the deaf; and parent, family and staff support. Youth Ministry programs assist youth to grow in their faith. Youth ministers are available in every parish and are trained, supported and receive on-going development. Last year 240 people participated in Convivio, an annual retreat that deepens and inspires youth to live [12]
their faith. The March for Life pilgrimage in Washington D.C. draws a large group every year and the High School Apostles Leadership Program trains high school students to be leaders in evangelization. The annual Fan the Fire Youth Rally in the summer continues to inspire and instruct youth in the Gospel. The Office of Marriage and Family Ministry prepares couples for the Sacrament of Marriage, offers Natural Family Planning classes and coordinates wedding jubilee Masses twice a year. The Respect Life Ministry manages and coordinates pro-life activities and includes: the Annual Diocesan Mass for Life; March for Life pilgrimage; Project Rachel ministry, a post abortive program; and the 40 Days of Life campaign, a peaceful public witness with a team of the faithful at the Summit Women s Center in Bridgeport. Vocations continue to increase, drawing men who are parishioners in our Diocese and answering the call to the Seminary. There are 22 men in formation, including 13 at St. John Fisher Seminary Residence in Stamford. The Diocese will ordain four seminarians to the priesthood this year. There are 92 active deacons and 12 men in formation. All the men come from different ethnicities and backgrounds and education levels. They work as laborers, electricians, business men, managers, artist, lawyers, teachers, doctors, dentists. [13]
Our parish goal is $. This year, there is a parish incentive for us to exceed our goal. We have the opportunity to receive as much as 50% of the funds redeemed above our parish goal. Here s how it works: Once the Diocesan Appeal goal is met, we will receive 40% of all funds redeemed above our parish goal amount. If we increase our number of donors above last year by just 3%, we will receive an additional 10% of the funds redeemed over our parish goal. To date, our parish has received $ in pledges. I encourage you to consider making a pledge to the 2014 Appeal. Your generosity makes a difference and touches the lives of many. Thank you. [14]
Sample Script for 2014 Appeal Parish Committee Member Telephone Call Follow-Up: Hello, Mr./Mrs. (Prospect s name), this is (your name) from (parish). I serve on our Parish Appeal Auxiliary for the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal. We are hoping that we might encourage you to renew your support this year. Especially during these difficult times, the demand for services has increased and the Appeal funds these efforts. If possible, could we include your commitment in our totals? If yes: Please record the amount and contact information. Request that the donor completes a pledge card and returns it in this Sunday s Offertory Basket. Thank the donor again. Confirm spelling of the names, address, pledge amount and payment schedule. Always let the donor hang up first. If no: Thank the person for his/her time and say Goodbye. Complete the pledge card or your roster with the person s name, address and write no gift. [15]
PARISH SPEAKERS PROGRAM The Development Office requests that every parish recruit one or two couples who will serve as parish speakers during the Appeal. In advance, we will provide training to speakers about Appeal funding priorities and encourage them to share with fellow parishioners the important impact of their generosity on many people in need. In addition to parish speakers from your parish, there are representatives available from Catholic Charities, Parish Life and Ministries, Catholic Schools, Parish Finance Services, and Vocations to offer brief testimonials at the end of Mass in your parish. You are strongly encouraged to have a speaker come to the parish during the Appeal. We encourage you to select appropriate dates and contact the Development Office as early as possible to secure a speaker for your parish. Our statistics from last year s Appeal demonstrate that parishes with speakers exceed their goal more quickly and with better results. [16]
MATCHING GIFTS PROGRAM Please encourage parishioners to inquire about a matching gift program at their company. In some cases, parishioners may double or even triple their donation to the Appeal. Any matching gifts will be credited to your parish once the pledge is redeemed. Some companies match gifts by retirees and/or spouses of deceased employees. Please use the following in your bulletins. Matching Gifts to the Annual Bishop s Appeal Please inquire about a matching gift at your company to the Annual Bishop s Appeal because it may double your donation and be credited toward the parish goal! Companies change policies over time and they may support Catholic Charities or the Catholic Academies of Bridgeport. Some employers even match gifts by retirees or spouses of deceased employees. Matching gift forms can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or Benefits Coordinator of your company. Please fill in the employee s portion and submit the form or appropriate paperwork with your pledge card or when your pledge is completed. Step 1: Check with the Human Resources Department, Benefits Coordinator or Payroll Department of your company and inquire if they offer a Matching Gift. Step 2: Review donation guidelines and/or a list of eligible charities supported. Step 3: Decide how much you want to donate. Important some companies will not donate to religious organizations but may donate to Catholic Charities of Fairfield County or the Catholic Schools. If your company qualifies, please make your gift payments payable to Catholic Charities or the Catholic Academies of Bridgeport and remit the payments to the Appeal Office. If you need more information, please contact us at (203) 416-1312 or aba@diobpt.org. Step 4: Fill out the employee section on the appropriate form and submit with the pledge card or at the completion of your last payment to ensure that the match is donated. If you Several have companies any questions that participate about this process, in Matching please Gift call Programs the Development to the Annual Office Bishop at 203-416- include 1312 or email us at aba@diobpt.org. [17]
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IN-PEW WEEKENDS The Development Office recommends that your parish designate at least one weekend of Masses as In-Pew Weekend. This year s suggested In-Pew weekends are April 5th & 6th, May 17th & 18th, and June 7th & 8th.. Logistics: Ushers and/or 2014 APPEAL PARISH COMMITTEE should be briefed beforehand on when to pass out and collect In-Pew Weekend envelopes. All pews should be free from pledge envelopes from previous Masses. All pews should have enough pencils for each family representative. It is important to promote the Appeal one week ahead of In-Pew Weekend. If possible, bulletin announcements should be inserted the week of In-Pew Weekend. Appeal posters should be prominently displayed at the doorways/vestibule of the Church. [19]
Suggested Script: Today is In-Pew Weekend; it offers an opportunity for parishioners to make their commitment at Mass and provide resources and hope to families, neighbors and parishioners. Your generosity to the Annual Bishop s Appeal is essential to fund vital ministries across Fairfield County. These include: Serving 1.5 million meals through food programs in Bridgeport, Danbury and Stamford, food pantries and senior nutrition - all provided by Catholic Charities; Counseling individuals and families through Catholic Charities that help with a variety of social issues, medication management, and marriage and family therapy; including significant on the ground support for the residents of Newtown after the December 14 th tragedy; Providing 262 financial scholarships to families in inner-city Catholic elementary schools; Educating over 38,000 children and young adults in religious education programs each year. Financing the formation of 22 men to become priests in our Diocese; Caring for 56 retired priests; and Giving pastoral care to 23,000 patients in hospitals and nursing homes. [20]
This weekend we hope to encourage all parishioners to contribute to the Appeal. If you have already made a pledge to the effort, so that we may confirm our records, I ask that you fill out an additional card today and indicate by checking the I have already made my pledge. (box on the front of the envelope.) - (Please emphasize that they need to mark this box otherwise we run the risk of double-counting!) I am encouraging everyone to take part in this program. I ask all of you to prayerfully consider your own support of the vital ministries throughout the Diocese. Please join me and many of your fellow parishioners in making this a successful Appeal by making your pledge today and I thank all who have already sent in their commitment. Please contribute to your best ability. For some, you might consider $100 per month or approximately $1,000. For others, perhaps $25 per month or $250 would be more appropriate. We hope that every parishioner will be able to contribute at some level. If we could all just take a couple of minutes, I would like to ask a representative from each family to take an Appeal envelope and pencil. [Pastor should pick up a pencil and mirror the actions he wants the parishioners to make.] I would now ask you to print your name, address, and phone number in the left-hand section of the envelope. [21]
Please take some time to complete the Appeal envelope. Your first payment, cash or check, can be placed in the envelope. The earlier you make your pledge, the easier it will be to spread your pledge payments out over the course of the year. In a few minutes, I will have the ushers/volunteers come around to collect the cards. I thank you in advance for your generosity. (At this time the organist can play a few minutes of music while parishioners fill out their card. When parishioners are finished, please ask the ushers to collect the cards.) I would like to thank all of the families who made their pledge to the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal at this Mass, as well as those who have made their commitments prior to this weekend. Thank you. [22]
In-Pew Weekend Do s and Don'ts Do Ask parishioners to consider a commitment at Mass in support of the 2014 Appeal. Do Encourage participation from all parishioners to support the many needs the Diocese faces; support has to come from all levels. Do Express past percentage of participation and challenge for a higher rate. Last year we received a gift from 25% of all households, this year, I want to reach 30%. Do Make sure to have ample pens and/or pencils ready at the end of the pews or hand out. Do Instruct ushers and volunteers, who will assist at the Building Bridges in Faith and Charity Weekend, a few days in advance. Do Encourage cash and/or checks to be included in the Building Bridges in Faith and Charity Appeal envelope. This will start the pledge fulfillment process. (The remaining balance will be billed from the Development Office and is to be paid before December 31, 2014.) Do Encourage ownership of the Diocese. This is your parish which is also part of your Diocese; together we all do many good things. Do Have envelopes readily available for parishioners in vestibules during the Appeal weeks. [23]
Do AND THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT Thank parishioners for their continued support of the Parish and Diocese. Don t Subtract the remainder needed to reach the target goal and divide it by any number of parishioners. This detracts from the initial requests made from mailings and discourages many parishioners who have already committed at a higher level to give in future appeals. Don t Place the In-Pew Weekend envelopes in the pews prior to Mass. It is best to have your ushers hand them out to families. [24]
In-Pew Weekend Checklist Process has been reviewed with the Development Office, if necessary In-Pew Weekend promoted by local bulletin announcement and pulpit one week before Appeal promoted the week of In-Pew Weekend In-Pew Weekend envelopes are in place ready to be distributed Ushers and/or ABA volunteers briefed Ample pens and/or pencils ready to be handed out or placed at the end of the pews In-Pew Weekend materials reviewed Speakers have been secured and prepped, if requested, by the Development Office Should you have questions regarding the processing of pledges and/or payments following In-Pew Weekend, please contact the Development Office at (203) 416-1470. Thank you. [25]
2014 ANNUAL BISHOP S APPEAL In-Pew Processing Instructions FOUR Steps to In-Pew Success! Step One: Sort completed In-Pew Envelopes ALPHABETICALLY BY LAST NAME. Step Two: Place the matching mailing label over the shaded portion of the In-Pew Envelope (bottom right hand corner). If you spot corrections that need to be made, make the correction directly on the label and we will correct it. If there is no mailing label, please refer to your current parish list to find correct ID number. If you cannot find an ID #, please keep In-Pew Envelope in alphabetical order and we will issue the ID # while processing. Step Three: Check the In-Pew Envelopes to verify the check or cash amount written is correct and the gift totals add up (i.e. Pledge is $150 with $15 paid and a $135 balance). PLEASE KEEP CHECKS INSIDE IN-PEW ENVELOPE. If cash is enclosed, please write a PARISH CHECK for the total amount of cash received one PARISH CHECK for Work Sheet A and one PARISH CHECK for Work Sheet B. Step Four: Sort In-Pew Envelopes into four separate batches according to the type of gift. These correspond to the four different Work Sheets attached. Make extra copies of the A-B- C-D Sheets as needed. Please keep In-Pew Envelopes in ALPHABETICAL ORDER within their corresponding Work Sheets. Work Sheet A =Pledges Paid in Full. Work Sheet B = Pledges with Partial Payment. Work Sheet C =Pledges with No Payment. Work Sheet D =Pledges paid with Credit Cards. [26]
Fill out and tally each Work Sheet accordingly. Please type or print legibly. Number each page and tally the totals at the bottom of each page. Staple adding machine tape to the back of each Work Sheet. Once all information is tallied, transfer that information to the Summary Report. We strongly suggest making a copy of the Summary Report and Work Sheets for your files in case we have questions. Rubber band Work Sheets around corresponding In-Pew Envelopes and return them, along with the Summary Report, to the Development Office as soon as possible. Materials can be mailed (Insured), or, if at all possible, hand-delivered to the ABA Office: The Catholic Center ATTN: Development Office 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 Miscellaneous: 1. IF A DONOR LISTS A PARISH OTHER THAN YOURS on the front of the In-Pew Envelope, please do not include these pledges in your totals! Please keep the checks or cash from these directly in the In-Pew Envelope. Put them in a separate group, label them Another Parish and send them to us with your Summary Report and Worksheets. 2. Any remaining, left-over labels, can be reviewed and marked for deletions, corrections, deaths, changes, etc., and returned to our office. If you have any questions, please call the Development Office at 203.416.1474 or 203-416-1475 Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. Many thanks for your partnership in success! [27]
PARISH RECEPTIONS The primary aim of a Parish Reception is to welcome all parishioners together in support of the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal Building Bridges in Faith and Charity Annual Bishop s Appeal. We encourage you to consider a reception following Mass with coffee and doughnuts. It would last approximately 30-45 minutes. Each parish s reception should be in the character of the parish or region, but there are a few guidelines that should be followed in all parishes. Set a date early. Parish Receptions should take place between the months of March and June. The Pastor acts as the host and Master of Ceremony with the assistance of a parish financial committee or 2014 Appeal Parish Auxiliary. Be sure to send invitations three to four weeks before the reception date. Plan an agenda and confirm the availability of speakers with the Development Office in advance. Supplement all invitations with a phone call encouraging each guest to attend. [28]
Suggested Reception Agenda I. Welcome and Appeal Prayer Pastor 3 minutes II. Overview of the Appeal Pastor 10 minutes III. Show Annual Bishop s Appeal Video Pastor/Technician 8 minutes IV. Invitation to Support the Appeal Pastor/ 5 minutes Parish Committee V. Blessing Pastor 2 minutes [29]
Suggested Script for Reception Welcome and Opening Prayer Thank you for joining me today to consider the 2014 Building Bridges in Faith and Charity Annual Bishop s Appeal. I will provide an overview of the Appeal and talk about the impact of your generosity across the ministries of the Diocese and encourage your participation towards our parish goal this year. (Please recite the 2014 Appeal Prayer) Father, you have blessed our minds and hands to do your work, and as we gather, we seek your guidance for the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal. In it we want to faithfully serve you by building a bridge of hope to those in need, in our parishes, schools, communities, and with our clergy and religious. We pray you will enlighten us in ways to secure the means to provide for others. We pray that each ministry will fulfill and restore individuals. For those who are away from the Church, we pray the Holy Spirit will draw them to you. For those who lack, we pray they will be filled. We ask for your blessings on our parishioners and donors who give freely from their hearts and respond to God s call of caring for their neighbor. We thank you in Jesus name. Amen. Show the Annual Bishop s Appeal Video [30]
Call to Action To date, our parish has reached $ towards our goal of $ with an average gift of $. I encourage you to please complete a pledge card at the back table and join our efforts to raise funds for Diocesan services and our parish needs. Blessing (Please offer a blessing to the reception attendees) Parish Reception Follow-up: Every family that attends a Parish Reception should receive a follow-up phone call. This call, to be completed by the Pastor and/or 2014 Appeal Parish Committee, will give them a chance to ask any questions they might have and will keep the 2014 Appeal in their thoughts. Sample Follow-up Call Hello, this is [your name], a fellow parishioner of [your parish]. I serve on our Parish Appeal Auxiliary for the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal. I was glad that you attended the 2014 Building Bridges in Faith and Charity Appeal Reception on. [or I enjoyed talking to you about the Annual Appeal at the reception last Tuesday ] I am calling to see if you have any questions about the initiative or what it will mean to our parish. [31]
Directly address their questions, then: Talk about your reasons for supporting the Appeal. There are many to choose from: increased training and support for lay ministers; enrichment of religious education programs; direct aid to the needy through Catholic Charities, etc. We are hoping that we might encourage you to renew your support to the Appeal this year. Especially during these difficult times, the demand for services has increased and the Appeal funds these efforts. If possible, could we include your commitment in our totals? If yes: Please record the amount and contact information. Request that the donor completes a pledge card and return it in this Sunday s Offertory Basket. Thank the donor again. Confirm spelling of the names, address, pledge amount and payment schedule. Always let the donor hang up first. If no: Thank the person for his/her time and say Goodbye. Complete the pledge card or your roster with the person s name, address and write no gift. [32]
PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENTS February 22nd and 23rd, 2014 APPEAL PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT/RECORDING (Read by Pastor or 2014 Appeal Parish Auxiliary Member) I greet you, my sisters and brothers in Christ, with profound gratitude for your prayers and well wishes in my appointment as Christ s Shepherd as the Bishop in the Diocese of Bridgeport. As I visit parishes and ministries, I see the Diocese alive in Christ s love. We begin the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal. Your sacrificial gift serves to build bridges in faith and charity to all people of Fairfield County. I am grateful for your support. Your generosity to the Annual Bishop s Appeal is essential to fund vital ministries across Fairfield County. These include: Serving 1.5 million meals through food programs in Bridgeport, Danbury and Stamford, food pantries and senior nutrition - all provided by Catholic Charities; Counseling individuals and families through Catholic Charities that help with a variety of social issues, medication management, and marriage and family therapy; including significant on the ground support for the residents of Newtown after the December 14 th tragedy; [33]
Educating over 38,000 children and young adults in religious education programs each year; Providing 262 financial scholarships to families in inner-city Catholic elementary schools; Financing the formation of 22 men to become priests in our Diocese, four of who will be ordained in May. Financing of 12 deacons in formation; and continuing formation for 92 active deacons; Caring for 56 retired priests; and Giving pastoral care to over 23,000 patients in hospitals and nursing homes. Every ministry served by the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal touches parishioners in the Diocese of Bridgeport. [34]
March 1st & 2nd The Catholic Academies of Bridgeport, formerly known as the Cathedral Education Cluster, are faith-filled learning communities comprised of three elementary schools in the city of Bridgeport St. Andrew Academy; Cathedral Academy, St. Ann Academy. They offer a quality education to over 1,000 racially diverse students who cannot afford a Catholic education, with 65% of families receiving tuition assistance. 100% of the Catholic Academies students graduate from high school, attend college and are making a difference in rewarding careers. Sr. Joan Magnetti, rscj, Executive Director Catholic Academies says, Thank you for your support to the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal and helping to make inner-city education a possibility to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity for an excellent education. Prayer of the Faithful In consideration of the many gifts that God has given each of us, may our parish community respond generously to the 2014 Annual Bishop s Appeal, we pray to the Lord: [35]
March 8th & 9th The Director of Religious Education Program is responsible for parish elementary and junior high religious and sacramental preparation in 82 parishes in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Michelle O Mara, who manages the program, researches, reviews and evaluates program materials and offers personalized, hands-on, one-to-one assistance to Directors of Religious Education (DREs). In addition, she mentors new DREs, follows up on their progress and offers tools to develop a faith-filled catechetical program in each parish. Michelle says, We have a strong religious education program in the Diocese that follows the Catholic teachings of the Gospel of Jesus. Each parish director develops a comprehensive program so all religious education instructors have grade appropriate teaching outlines and materials to catechize our children and young adults. Their dedication is invaluable. Prayer of the Faithful We pray for God s blessing on the Directors of Religious Education and Religious Education teachers. Thank you for ongoing support to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. [36]
March 15th & 16th Gifts to the Annual Bishop s Appeal support Respect Life Ministry and include Project Rachel, which meets the needs of those affected by abortion through various programs. It is comprised of an established network of priests and professionals who support those seeking healing and hope. A confidential phone line is available to discuss ways to find the best means for healing. Maureen Ciardiello, Director of Respect Life Ministries comments, As the Director of Respect Life Ministry, we will be offering a variety of programs to support initiatives for the unborn. We are currently working on expanding and growing the Respect Life Ministry to not only include support, healing and comfort for those who have had an abortion, but for those who have suffered a miscarriage. We have a network of pregnancy resources to vulnerable pregnant women; as well as offering educational opportunities regarding the Church s teachings on Patient s Rights and End of Life issues. Thank you for your support to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. Prayer of the Faithful May we be humble stewards of the gifts given to us by God, and may we set an example of mercy through our generosity to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. We pray to the Lord. [37]
March 23rd & 24th The Ministry for People with Disabilities invites those with disabilities and their families to participate in all aspects of the Church by offering a welcoming and loving environment. Programs educate parish communities by supporting families with catechesis and evangelization that transmit faith through the Sacraments and ongoing formation. Sacramental preparation and catechesis for children with special needs is a major focus and the ministry provides guidelines and strategies so every child is prepared. Parent, family and staff support; the Apostolate for the Deaf; and other Diocesan activities are also coordinated. Michele O Mara, director of the Ministry for with Disabilities says, I have seen people of all ages and needs encounter Christ with great joy. It is quite humbling to see them witness their faith and perseverance of the Gospel. In turn, they are evangelizing their families and friends, and lives are changed. Thank you for your generous support to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. Your gift provides opportunities for all to grow in their faith and the Gospel. Prayer of the Faithful May we be humble stewards of the gifts given to us by God, and may we set an example of mercy through our generosity to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. We pray to the Lord. [38]
March 29th & 30th The Morning Glory Breakfast Program, one of four major nutrition programs of Catholic Charities, expanded services in June 2013. The enhanced program offers an opportunity to more effectively plan healthy and hearty meals to the homeless and financially disadvantaged in the Danbury area and works closely with Catholic Charities Homeless Outreach Team. Together, these two programs engage and assess individuals and assist them in finding lasting solutions to ending their homelessness. Currently, Morning Glory is beginning work on its next phase, the Eat Smart Marketplace, a healthy alternative food pantry that will target families in the downtown Danbury area who are having difficulty providing quality food to their children. Once the Eat Smart Marketplace is up and operational, Morning Glory anticipates serving more than double the amount of people currently served. Michele Conderino, MSW, Director of Homeless Services says, The Morning Glory Breakfast program offers so much under one roof: a safe place to go at a time when all other programs are closed, a hot and hearty breakfast, and access to a variety of services that can affectively end someone s homelessness. I am so proud that Morning Glory lives Catholic Charities mission to put faith into action. Gifts to the Annual Bishop s Appeal assist Catholic Charities three major nutrition programs: the Thomas Merton Center in Bridgeport, New [39]
Covenant House and the Senior Nutrition Program in Stamford, and the Morning Glory Program in Danbury. Thank you for your support. Prayer of the Faithful We pray for those who struggle with financial challenges and homelessness that they may be fulfilled. We ask our Lord to provide for the critical ministries and programs that help them lead meaningful lives and for the generosity of our donors who support the Annual Bishop s Appeal that fund these programs. [40]
April 5th & 6th In-Pew Sunday Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement (Please refer to the text provided in this Parish Leadership Guide for suggested speaking points to conduct an effective In-Pew Weekend.) (Remember you are asking those who have not yet made a pledge, filled out a card, or mailed in their pledge to please fill out the card at this time and hand in.) Prayer of the Faithful May we be humble stewards of the gifts given to us by God, and may we set an example of mercy through our generosity to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. We pray to the Lord. [41]
April 12th & 13th Palm Sunday Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Program offers a network of programs and services that help thousands overcome personal hardship. Their outpatient psychiatric services assist individuals and families with a strong focus on children. Last year alone, they provided 15,000 counseling sessions including significant support for the residents of Newtown after the December 14 th tragedy. For those overwhelmed and disheartened by life crises, access to a caring and skilled Catholic Charities counselor can mean the difference between the hope of healing and recovery and the despair of mental illness, lost jobs and broken families, says Michael Tintrup, Chief Operating Officer. Clinic staff are skilled master level and licensed clinicians with training in various mental health disciplines, including counseling, clinical social work, medication management, and marriage and family therapy. The services are licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Department of Children and Families. When you make a gift to the Annual Bishop s Appeal, you help fund vital programs that guide, support, and make a difference in the lives of others. Thank you. [42]
Prayer of the Faithful We pray that our good and gracious God will continue to bless the Diocese of Bridgeport with programs that provide healing and support. For this we pray to the Lord. [43]
April 19th & 20th Easter No Appeal Announcement [44]
April 26th & 27th Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement The Office for Marriage and Family serves parishes by providing ministries that assist engaged and married couples and families who are striving to live their Catholic Faith. The overall objective of the Marriage and Family ministry is to promote and support healthy, joyful and holy marriages and families, says Angela Mantero, Director of Marriage and Family. The first step towards this goal is in offering a two-day Marriage Preparation program for engaged couples which explores in depth the vows they will make on their wedding day. The office also promotes Natural Family Planning (NFP), the moral, healthy and successful practice of planning for children, including celebrating a Mass for NFP Awareness in the summer. In the spring and fall, the office sponsors Wedding Jubilee Masses, open to all parishes in the diocese for couples celebrating marriages of ten through and 50+ years. Several marriage enrichment evenings are planned throughout the year focusing on such vital topics as communication, forgiveness and spirituality. There are also plans to increase ministry for divorced Catholics through parish-based support groups. For more information, Angela can be reached at amantero@diobpt.org or 203-416-1627. Thank you for your gift to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. You generosity supports programs that enrich and assist individuals in their marriage relationship. [45]
Prayer of the Faithful May our parish family be generous stewards to the 2014 Annual Appeal, we pray to the Lord: [46]
May 3rd & 4th Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement Since its founding in 1989, more than 80 men began their spiritual journey at St. John Fisher Seminary and were ordained priests in the Diocese of Bridgeport. This year marks the 25 th anniversary of its founding where men continue to discern the call to serve the people of God as a priest. We are blessed with a healthy number of seminarians for our diocese and this year five will be ordained to the priesthood on May 17 th. The Fisher Pre-Theology Program is a two-year program of vocational discernment, spiritual formation, and academic training for men who have already earned their undergraduate degree and who are preparing for major seminary. The Fisher College Program is a seminary formation program for young men who reside and take some courses at St. John Fisher, while pursuing their college degree at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT or Fordham University in the Bronx. Shane Nunes is a second year, pre-theology student at St. John Fisher. He says, The Seminary has been a huge blessing to me and has helped affirm my discernment on the path to becoming a priest. The transition from research chemist to seminarian was not easy at first, but it has been possible because of the formation program at St. John Fisher and the priests who have been a part of that program. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to live and study here and I look forward to one day serving all of God's people in this great Diocese. [47]
Thank you for your support to the Annual Bishop s Appeal and providing for the future of the Church. Prayer of the Faithful We pray for those who are discerning God s will in their lives and for those who will be ordained to the priesthood this year. Strengthen them to serve and preach the Gospel in all of life s joyful and challenging moments. [48]
May 10th & 11th Mother s Day Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement A new ministry in the Adult Formation Office is offering pilgrimages to various holy places in the United States. The first pilgrimage in 2013 travelled to Emmitsburg, Maryland where pilgrims visited the Saint Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine and the Baltimore Basilica. They continued their travels to Bensalem, Pennsylvania to the Saint Katharine Drexel Shrine. The second pilgrimage was held on the feast day of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, July 14, with a warm, sunny travel to the Saint Kateri and North American Martyrs Shrines in Auriesville, New York. This past November, over 50 people traveled to Pennsylvania to visit Our Lady of Czestochowa, Miraculous Medal, Saint John Neumann, and Saint Rita Cascia Shrines and attended the Magnificat Day Conference with Father Robert Barron, creator and co-host of Catholicism, a groundbreaking, award winning documentary series about the Catholic Faith; and Father Peter Cameron, the Editor-in-Chief of the Magnificat magazine. Gina Donnarummo, Director of Adult Formation comments, Adult education is key for Catholics and pilgrimages offer a unique way to learn and pray with these holy men and women. The Office of Adult Formation plans on offering many other pilgrimage opportunities thanks to your generous support of the Annual Bishop s Appeal. [49]
Prayer of the Faithful We lift up our students, teachers and school administrators and ask for continued guidance from our Lord. We pray for our generous donors who make Catholic education possible through their gifts to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. For this we pray to the Lord. [50]
May 17th & 18th In-Pew Sunday Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement (Please refer to the text provided in this Parish Leadership Guide for suggested speaking points to conduct an effective In-Pew Weekend.) (Remember you are asking those who have not yet made a pledge, filled out a card, or mailed in their pledge to please fill out the card at this time and hand in.) Prayer of the Faithful May we be humble stewards of the gifts given to us by God, and may we set an example of mercy through our generosity to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. We pray to the Lord. [51]
May 24th & 25th Memorial Day Weekend Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement Convivio is an annual Catholic Congress for youth led by youth. Students from grades nine through twelve gather and reflect upon contemporary society and share their experiences, thoughts and interests and they propose explanations and answers to the problems and challenges that youth experience in today s world. The event takes place at Sacred Heart University and all high school students are invited. The day consists of talks, videos, games, food, and small group discussions, along with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, confession and Mass. The nurturing of their faith does not stop there; post Convivio activities include joining the High School Apostles programs, joining their parish youth groups, the 40 Days of Life campaign during Lent, pilgrimages and a Christmas extravaganza where students assist children with special needs. Sr. Florencia, Director of Youth Ministry says: It is a privilege and a great joy for me to see so many young people come together to ask questions and to be a witness of how they find true answers throughout the weekend in the talks, in the small group discussions and especially in their personal encounter with Christ. Gifts to the Annual Bishop s Appeal helps provide programs such as this to help young adults grow in their faith. Thank you for your support. [52]
Prayer of the Faithful In thanksgiving to all within the parish family who have generously supported the Annual Bishop s Appeal, may they take great comfort in knowing that a gift from one will become a gift of many, we pray to the Lord: [53]
May 31th & June 1st Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement The Office of Education supports the ministry of administrators and teachers in 35 Diocesan schools. The Diocese is unique because all schools are in a diocesan governance structure rather than a parochial one. We are grateful to the donors who assist us in providing an excellent Catholic School education to students throughout Fairfield County, says Sr. Mary Grace Walsh, Superintendent of Schools. Your support of the Annual Bishop s Appeal assists the efforts of the work of the Office of Education, professional development, and growth of administrators and teachers. Thank you for your gift. Prayer of the Faithful We are grateful for our Catholic schools that provide academic excellence in an environment of faith. We lift up teachers, administrators and students and ask Christ to continue to guide them. We pray to the Lord. [54]
June 7th & 8th In-Pew Sunday Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement (Please refer to the text provided in this Parish Leadership Guide for suggested speaking points to conduct an effective In-Pew Weekend.) (Remember you are asking those who have not yet made a pledge, filled out a card, or mailed in their pledge to please fill out the card at this time and hand in.) Prayer of the Faithful May we be humble stewards of the gifts given to us by God, and may we set an example of mercy through our generosity to the Annual Bishop s Appeal. We pray to the Lord. [55]
June 28th & June 29th Pulpit/Bulletin Announcement The Annual Bishop s Appeal closes this weekend. If you have not yet made a gift, please pray about your decision and make a pledge or one-time gift. Donations to the 2014 Appeal helps sustain many who are unable to provide for their families or themselves. From counseling sessions, food and shelter programs to our Clergy and Religious; and parish ministries, your support is vital in continuing to meet the needs of our community and parishes. If you have not made a gift, please complete a pledge card today or go directly to www.2014aba.com. Together, we are Christ s guiding light for the lives of thousands in parish and Diocesan communities. Prayer of the Faithful In thanksgiving to all within the parish family who have generously supported the Annual Bishop s Appeal, may they take great comfort in knowing that a gift from one will become a gift of many, we pray to the Lord: [56]