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 | Leslie Ulrich

Giving is a Blessed Way of Life

January 23, 2023 | As the Catholic Ministry Appeal launches across the Diocese of St. Petersburg, thousands of families have already made a commitment to the 2023 Catholic Ministry Appeal. The Bell family from Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in Land O' Lakes is proud to support the appeal.

"We believe in supporting the Catholic Ministry Appeal because it allows us to give back to those most in need throughout the Diocese,” David and Ramona Bell shared. “As Christians, giving is one of the most blessed activities. We have found that the more we give, the more we have to give."

To learn more about why the Bell family decided to support the appeal, click here.

Members of each parish are invited to come together annually to assist those most in need in our local communities and support Catholics of all ages in growing their faith through gifts to the Catholic Ministry Appeal. In 2022, gifts to the appeal surpassed the goal—with more than $9.3 million donated the Diocese is exploring growing ministries.

“Last year was the first year of the Catholic Ministry Appeal—a new voluntary fundraising effort to fund dozens of ministries across the Diocese,” said Bishop Parkes. “We saw the generosity of parishioners at each of our 79 parishes and missions and the impact they have on ministry. This year, we will work together to bring ministry to life by loving God, loving others, and making disciples.”

This year, Bishop Parkes has set a goal of $8.5 million for the Catholic Ministry Appeal to ensure the ministries throughout our diocese have the funds they need to serve our community. Parishioners will hear more about the Catholic Ministry Appeal in their parishes over the next few weeks. They will also receive letters from Bishop Parkes and their pastor asking for support. All are being asked to consider supporting the important works and ministries of our diocese. To learn more about the Catholic Ministry Appeal and the incredible Catholic ministries it supports, visit https://www.dosp.org/catholicministryappeal.