Bishop thanks contributors for ‘overwhelming response’

Your generous and faithful support of the ministries of the Diocese of Metuchen is an inspiration to me and gives me great hope. As of this date, we are just shy of 97% of goal for the 2019 Bishop's Annual Appeal and on our way to reaching 100% for the third consecutive year! I am particularly grateful to our pastors, parish staff, and parish coordinators for their ongoing efforts on behalf of this campaign which remains open to receive new pledges and payments through October 2019. The extraordinary generosity of our parishioners is already having a signifi cant impact on the lives of so many and will help provide the necessary resources as we double our efforts to be truly people on fi re with God's love.

We all agree that our Church and our world are in great need of healing and spiritual renewal, but are encouraged in knowing the light of Christ will lead us as together we Help Build a Civilization of Love-one that is anchored in prayer and worship, invites all people to grow in personal friendship with Our Lord Jesus, and offers a compassionate presence for those who are hurting and vulnerable. Please be assured that your gift is being usedexclusively for the ministries outlined in the Appeal materials. The settlements that we reached in thepast regarding sexual misconduct from clergy was paid from insurance

reserves. The Appeal money is restricted to the many vital needs funded by your support for such things as the formation of our seminarians and deacons, outreach to our youth and young adults, and programs to assist couples through marriage preparation. Our ongoing efforts in evangelization and catechesis, advocacy for human life and dignity, and effectively ministering to people of variedethnicities and languages all depend on your generosity. In addition, $1.7 million has been earmarked for our Catholic Charities which is dedicated to providing basic needs and counseling services for those struggling with the hardships of life. Please continue praying for the graces God may send us during our year of spiritual renewal under the guidance of Our Lady of Guadalupe. We need her powerful intercession. Together, let us turn with renewed confi dence and outstretched arms to Our Virgin Mother of Guadalupe to set our hearts on fi re as we prepare to be consecrated to her maternal care.

With renewed best wishes, I remain Yours in Christ,

Most Reverend James F. Checchio, JCD, MBA Bishop of Metuchen