In the beginning, God said, “Let there be light, and there was light.” His son taught us, “You are the light of the world…Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” (Mt 5:14,16)
The words of Jesus Christ shine hope into our world darkened by strife, mistrust, greed, and pain. We’re being called to unite in our mission to Radiate the light of Christ to be a powerful force of good in the world. With a contribution to the 2023 Annual Catholic Appeal, you can be the spark that lights the way.
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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Jesus told his disciples, “Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father,” Mt 5:16
This Lenten season I look to you and ask you to be the light for others – shining in a world seemingly overcome by darkness.
At Mass we pray for our neighbors in need. As you leave Mass, don’t hide your light of Christ under a basket. Rather, carry it out into the world and compassionately and generously share it, profoundly blessing the lives of your neighbors in need across western Massachusetts.
Your faithful stewardship of the Annual Catholic Appeal is a beacon of light on a mountain. I look to you to join me in sharing God’s love this year and Radiating the Light of Christ for the world to see.
With every good wish, I am,
Your friend in Christ,
Most Rev. William D. Byrne
Bishop of Springfield
The Annual Catholic Appeal was initiated in 1959 to provide for the ever-increasing educational, human, pastoral, and spiritual needs of the people of Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. Funds raised through the Annual Catholic Appeal enable our Church to implement and administer these and other critical services in a comprehensive framework in order to carry out the work of Jesus Christ. It would not be possible to carry out His work without your assistance.
Through the Annual Catholic Appeal, the Catholic Church of western Massachusetts assists elderly persons in need; families in crisis; people who are homeless, lonely, and vulnerable; youth and young adults; and our parishes and Catholic schools. The Appeal also enables the Church to promote social justice, respect for human life from birth until death, and to communicate with all who seek to hear the teachings of Jesus Christ.