Dear Friends in Christ,
I am pleased to announce that I am designating Sunday, October 16, 2011 as the 2nd Annual Catholic Charities Sunday for the Diocese of Madison.
On this occasion we will help Catholic Charities celebrate 65 years of service to individuals, families, parishes, and communities throughout the Diocese. We celebrate the growth and transformation from an agency providing help for new mothers and adoptive families to one whose mission allows us to:
• Feed Families at 10 Parish Mobile Food Pantries;
• Guide Children with Parish School Counselors;
• Build Families through Domestic and International Adoption;
• Spread a Smile for those with Developmental Disabilities in Recreation Programs;
• Give Life a Chance through Pregnancy Counseling;
• Support Independent Living for Seniors and Persons with Developmental Disabilities;
• Break the Chains of Addiction in Hope Haven Alcohol and Drug Treatment Programs;
• Ease Loneliness for Seniors in our Aging Community with Support Services;
• Strengthen Individuals, Couples, and Families through Counseling;
• Bring Rural Communities Together with Local Food Initiatives and Education;
• Offer Individuals and Families Options in Affordable Housing, and
• Create a Senior Living Community through the All Saints Neighborhood
This is an opportunity to reflect on the Gospel and the call of Jesus Christ to serve those in need. Let us promote Catholic Charities to reduce poverty, promote human dignity, support families, and inspire communities to compassionate service. Let us reflect on our personal responsibility and that of our parish community to participate in the outreach of the Church through the opportunities afforded by Catholic Charities. Let us be “our brother’s and sister’s keepers” through the good works of Catholic Charities. Let us recognize and pray for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Madison on Catholic Charities Sunday 2011 – October 16.
Faithfully yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Robert C. Morlino
Bishop of Madison