FINAL REPORT: DIOCESAN ANNUAL APPEAL OVER GOAL

The final tallies have been recorded, and the ledger shows that the 2005 Diocesan Appeal has surpassed its goal of $4,400,000. The campaign raised a net total of $4,426,950.

Although the drive fell behind schedule for a period of time, Diocesan faithful rose to the occasion when asked for additional help to put the Appeal over goal. More than 1,800 contributors sent in a second gift, many of them doubling their pledge.
This was an extraordinary sign of support for the Diocese and the work funded by the Appeal, said Bishop Joseph F. Martino.

“I am very grateful for all those who have worked hard to help our Diocesan Annual Appeal reach and exceed its goal,” the Bishop said. “I am thankful also to every individual and family that made a pledge to the Appeal, including those who offered additional help, when asked, in order to take the Appeal over goal.

“Our beloved Diocese depends on the funds raised each year to help those in need and to carry out its mission. We are truly blessed to have so many strong and faithful supporters of our work in the 11 counties of Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania that comprise the Diocese of Scranton.” 

The Appeal supports numerous parish ministries; communication efforts such as CTV: Catholic Television and The Catholic Light; Diocesan schools and religious education programs; clergy formation and retirement; and care of Diocesan pastoral facilities.
Ernest G. Pappa, Appeal director, said the campaign was successful once again thanks to the more than 39,000 contributors who pledged to the Appeal and to those who helped run the campaign in their parishes.

“Our Diocese is very fortunate to have so many generous people who give freely of their time and from all the personal blessings they have received,” Mr. Pappa said. “Their concern for God’s work and for building up the Church in our Diocese is truly inspiring.”

He noted that 79 parishes reached or exceeded their goal, and 13 parishes came within $1,000 of their goal. As an extra incentive, parishes that exceed their goal receive a rebate of 75% of the amount over goal. The rebate can be used by the parish at its discretion.

Total pledges for the campaign were $4,682,354. Of that amount, $253,260 was returned to the parishes in the form of rebates.

The final report for the 2005 campaign, including the amounts raised by each parish, appears in the Aug. 17 issue of The Catholic Light.

“A million thanks to each and every person who helped to make the Diocesan Annual Appeal for 2005 a successful campaign. Finding the funds to help our Diocese continue the mission of the Church in our 11 counties is a daunting challenge except for the tens of thousands of generous stewards who respond each year. Some contributed time and talent. Others contributed treasure. Still others contributed all three. As moderator of the Appeal, I offer to one and all this humble thank you and grateful promise of prayerful remembrance!” said Monsignor Peter P. Madus.

While the books have been closed on another successful campaign, preparations are already well underway for the 2006 Diocesan Annual Appeal.

Nearly 350 pastors and members of their Parish Appeal Teams recently attended workshops in seven locations throughout the Diocese. The 2006 campaign begins with Announcement Weekend on Sept. 23-24.

Diocesan Annual Appeal 2005 Final Report