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[1]
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 7th
& 8th
.
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. Pamela Rittman
Chief Development Officer Director, Annual Bishop’s Appeal
[2]
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
[3]
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.
[4]
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
[email protected] [email protected]
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.
[5]
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
Pastors, Parochial
Vicars, ABA
Volunteers
Request letter
from pastor
Solicit all families
in database who
have not gifted
Feature article in Fairfield County
Catholic
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
[6]
Month Target Audience Mailing Promotions
April 2014
Solicit Past Donors
Thank you letters
and pledge
reminders
Request letter from
Bishop
Speakers in parishes
In-Pew Sunday
Feature article in Fairfield County
Catholic with envelope
Weekly pulpit announcements
May 2014
Solicit all families
in database who
have not given
Thank you letters
and pledge
reminders
Request letters from
Pastors
Speakers in parishes
In-Pew Sunday
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 30th 2013
Appeal ends
In-Pew Sunday
Feature article in Fairfield County
Catholic with envelope
Phone Calls
[7]
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.
[8]
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.
[9]
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.
[10]
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 home-
delivered 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
[11]
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 14th
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.
[12]
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
[13]
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.
[14]
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.
[15]
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.
[16]
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.
[17]
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.
Several companies that participate in Matching Gift Programs to the Annual Bishop include
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
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 have any questions about this process, please call the Development Office at 203-416-
1312 or email us at [email protected].
Several companies that participate in Matching Gift Programs to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal
include: Chubb, Dannon, Deutsche Bank, Energizer, GE, GenRe, J.P. Morgan Chase, Kraft
Foods, Pfizer, Pitney Bowes, Thomson, UBS, Unilever, and many more.
[19]
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.
[20]
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 14th
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.
[21]
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.
[22]
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.
[23]
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.
[24]
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.
[25]
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.
[26]
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.
[27]
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!
[28]
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.
[29]
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
[30]
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
[31]
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.
[32]
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.
[33]
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 14th
tragedy;
[34]
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.
[35]
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:
[36]
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.
[37]
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.
[38]
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.
[39]
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
[40]
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.
[41]
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.
[42]
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 14th
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.
[43]
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.
[44]
April 19th & 20th
Easter
No Appeal Announcement
____________________________________________________________
[45]
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 [email protected] 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.
[46]
Prayer of the Faithful May our parish family be generous stewards to the
2014 Annual Appeal, we pray to the Lord:
[47]
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 25th
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 17th
.
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.”
[48]
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.
[49]
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.”
[50]
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.
[51]
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.
[52]
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.
[53]
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:
[54]
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.
[55]
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.
[56]
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: