Dear Friends in Christ,
I pray this letter finds you and your families in good health. Our world has been forever changed by the coronavirus. The need in our communities has never been more real. Before the pandemic we may have known a family that was struggling to feed their children or a single mom who faced homelessness. Now, both the faces of those needing help has quickly changed and their number has unfortunately increased during these unprecedented times of economic turmoil. So many have been impacted by sickness, uncertainty and stress. As always, it is in times like these that we rely on each other and on our faith.
I am continually inspired by the many stories that I hear of those who are stepping up to help. From those who are volunteering at food banks, to those who are reaching out virtually to connect with one another, to our parishes that are using social media to stay connected with their parishioners, and all those who are taking advantage of the many resources now available to more firmly root our faith in their lives. It is edifying to see our faith being lived out every day in what we are doing and how we are reflecting God’s love for each other.
I am also grateful and humbled by the financial gifts that donors like you are making to support our Diocesan Annual Campaign. Our ministries and programs are more relevant today than ever before as we minister to those in need. Our food banks continue to feed hungry families, which may now include our neighbors and friends. Through the gift of technology, our evangelization efforts are now reaching more of our faithful who are unable to attend Mass in person. Our HCAS finance personnel are assisting parishes with administrative issues while working remotely. Catholic Charities is using virtual platforms to continue provide services to their clients.
Your financial support enables all of these programs and ministries, and others, of the Diocese of Harrisburg to continue serving those in need in our communities. All of us, in some way, have been impacted negatively by COVID-19. I ask you to please remember your parish and priests, all of our clergy and consecrated religious, the sick, those who have passed away and their grieving families, as well as your fellow parishioners in your prayers. If you are able, also please prayerfully consider your gift to this year’s Diocesan Annual Campaign-Rooted in Faith. I have seen and heard of countless examples of our faith in action over the last few months and I am inspired by the outpouring of love, compassion and care by so many of our faithful. We are called to continue our efforts and can only do that with the help of donors like you. This year’s campaign will end on January 31, 2021.
Please join me in praying for all who are affected by this pandemic and for healing for all, both in our Diocese and throughout the world.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Ronald W. Gainer
Bishop of Harrisburg
All monies raised in the DAC are only used for the programs, services and ministries for which they are designated. No gifts to the DAC are used to satisfy legal fees or settlement costs associated with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg’s reorganization. A listing of DAC allocations may be found at www.hbgdiocese.org/diocesan-annual-campaign.
