My Dear Friends in Christ,

The Catholic Appeal is an exercise of love. Through the Catholic Appeal, we respond to our call to love God and one another, actively helping others to realize the hope for a better future. For many, the line between hope and despair is thin. The Appeal serves as a tangible sign of our concern for those in need and allows us to bring them the presence of the Lord, to heal brokenness and restore hope. For so very many, our outreach is the light that helps them find a way forward. Pope Francis often cites St. Paul’s call for us not to be complacent or grow weary of doing good. With recognition of the many people who look to us for assistance, now, more than ever, I humbly ask for your support of the Catholic Appeal. This year, I am hopeful that, as a family of faith, we may unite in our involvement because extraordinary participation will have an extraordinary impact for our neighbors in need. Please know of my gratitude for your generosity and compassion. Together, we affirm our belief that suffering and disappointment can be transformed into new life through the power of our being witnesses and agents of Christ’s unconditional love. Asking God’s blessings upon you and all whom you hold dear, I remain,

Devotedly yours in Christ,

Cardinal Seán O’Malley, O.F.M., Cap.