The 2021 HOUSE OF CHARITY – BISHOP’S ANNUAL APPEAL is in full swing throughout our diocese. I thank those who generously contributed to the 2020 APPEAL. Your support enabled our Church, through a variety of programs and ministries, to do the work of Christ in each of the six counties of South Jersey that compose the Diocese of Camden. Despite the challenges that emerged due to the pandemic, we were able to assist thousands of our needy sisters and brothers no matter their creed or race. This was possible through your generosity which found its way to those in need. Without your financial support we could not do the work of charity on behalf of the suffering in our community. Many, many thanks to our donors.
Some may fear that their money is used by the church to settle sexual abuse claims. I assure you that CANNOT happen and will NOT happen. Nor is your donation included in the chapter 11 reorganization that the diocese is undergoing. That CANNOT happen and will NOT happen.
Let me give a few examples of what your charity does:
CHAPLAINCIES in hospitals and nursing homes. Last year more than 129,00 patients were ministered to; 14,000 family members and staffs were visited. The sick, the aged, the dying, their loved ones, medical staffs and employees of these institutions had contact with representatives of our church. For some, it was the ministry of a priest who brought them Sacraments. For others, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and other volunteers prayed with and consoled the sick and their families. Your SUPPORT of the Annual Appeal made this possible.
VOCATIONS to the priesthood and the permanent diaconate. A variety of programs of professional and theological education for men in formation for Ordination were arranged. Our retired priests who have for years faithfully served God’s people in our diocese are housed and cared for in a splendid retirement facility. Your SUPPORT of the Annual Appeal made this possible.
The many programs of assistance offered by CATHOLIC CHARITIES such as counseling, housing, addiction recovery, immigrant assistance, food, clothing, aid to single mothers and their children, and more were made available. Thousands were helped. The only requirement is that a person be in need of help. Without reference to creed or race in the name of Christ and His church they received the needed help. Your SUPPORT to the Annual Appeal made this possible.
The SAINT JOHN OF GOD Community Services reaches out to families of special needs children who deal with unique challenges raising their children. Saint John of God welcomes all and provides programs to support and encourage the well-being of many families of God’s special children. Your SUPPORT of the Annual Appeal made this possible.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION programs severely impacted by COVID-19 have continued to interact virtually with the children. CAMPUS MINISTRY programs at Rowan, Stockton and Rutgers Universities reached out to Catholic students on those campuses to keep them connected to our church.
YOUTH MINISTRY programs focused on teenagers and adolescents to keep them in the church. Your SUPPORT of the Annual Appeal made this possible.
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS are opened and are doing the work of in-person education during the pandemic. They form students in body, mind and spirit. They are first class education institutions in which students learn and teachers teach. Tuition assistance and enhanced programs of study are available. Your SUPPORT of the Annual Appeal made this possible.
The 2021 Appeal is titled FACES OF HOPE. Please, visit www.dioceseofcamden.org to view this year’s video presentation and meet some of the FACES OF HOPE. Your gift to the House of Charity will provide hope to thousands throughout South Jersey.
FACES OF HOPE – help immigrants to learn English; they help the sick, the dying and their loved ones to be closer to God; they help those caught in destructive vices to get their lives straightened out; they help the confused to make correct decisions about life choices; they help to feed the hungry; they help to pass on to the generations to come Catholic values and morals; they help students learn and grow in knowledge and in our faith; they help God’s special children and so much more. These FACES OF HOPE help because of your SUPPORT of the Annual Appeal.
You should be as proud as I am of the presence of our church in the lives of thousands through the House of Charity which explains why I do not mind putting my hands on your wallets and pocketbooks. I know what your gift, for some a sacrificial gift, enables the church to do on behalf of so many who need our help. I am very aware of your generosity which I have repeatedly witnessed as your bishop.
Faith is lived through CHARITY. Your faith comes alive when you give. I ask you to support the House of Charity – Bishop’s Annual Appeal. Consider the effects on society your donation makes in communities and neighborhoods throughout South Jersey and in the lives of thousands. I cannot imagine the disastrous effects in our community and in the lives of those who benefit from the Appeal if the House of Charity is not funded at the needed level.
No matter how small or large your donation, please donate. YOUR SUPPORT IS NEEDED. YOUR CHARITY MAKES A DIFFERENCE.
Most Reverend Dennis J. Sullivan, D.D.
Bishop of Camden