Here is the website link to donate online:  cardinalsappeal.org/donate

The Gospel tells us the story of the calling of the first apostles. Simon Peter and Andrew, James and John left their nets, their boats, and even their father Zebedee to follow Our Lord. Fishing was their livelihood. It was everything they had but Jesus was well worth it. Was it a sacrifice? Indeed it was. But there was something in Jesus’ invitation that they couldn’t resist. His eyes beckoned, they felt it in their hearts, and they realized that they wanted to be with Him forever.

Today Jesus calls us too. In our work, in our dealings with others, in our self-sacrifice for strangers, and the people we love. We have felt this strongly and our courage has been put to the test through the events of the past year, from the effects of natural disasters and civil unrest to the global pandemic. I know that for many of you the hardship continues. I know that many people are still suffering. But through it all, we remain united as a family; we remain united in Christ. We recognize in the vulnerable and the needy, the image of the suffering Christ who is reaching out to us. As Jesus said, whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters, you did for Me.”

It is in this light of self-sacrifice and love of neighbor that once again it is asked for your generosity in contributing to the Cardinal’s Annual Stewardship Appeal.

Some of you may have received a letter from Cardinal Dolan explaining the appeal. But allow me to briefly explain the goals of the fund.

Where will the money go?

1. (1)  Tosupportfinancially-stricken parishes,many of which are struggling to service the faithful

2. (2)  To support feeding programs and other essential human services

3. (3)  To support our Catholic schools and various faith formation activities

4. (4)  Tocontributetotheeducationofnewparishpriests

5. (5)  To care for our retired priests who continue to pray and make sacrifices for us

6. (6)  And, as we learned from 2020, to set aside funds to deal with the COVID-19 crisis