By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – As the Diocese of Jackson kicks off the 2022 Catholic Service Appeal (CSA), Rebecca Harris paused to remember all that has changed in our world and our lives over the past 24 months.
“We remember that our Catholic faith has been there in these trying times. Let us find comfort in the Eucharist knowing that Jesus is guiding each of us. He has been our ‘Hope Rising,'” said Harris.
Each year in January Bishop Joseph Kopacz sends letters to all parishioners in the diocese asking for support of 11 ministries that are vital to the Catholic faith.
“When you make a gift you become the ‘Hope Rising’ to those served by the appeal,” Harris says.
The Catholic community can become the hope to those served by these ministries: Seminarian Education, Catholic Schools, Retired Priests, Catholic Charities, Campus Ministry, Formation Ministry and Religious Education, Intercultural Ministry, Evangelization and Communication, Family Ministry, Youth Ministry and Parishes.
For detailed information on each of these ministries supporters can visit website csa.jacksondiocese.org.
Harris says that supporters will also find stories from people who have been supported by the Catholic Service Appeal.
“This year, we are featuring stories that show a small piece of how donations to the CSA make huge impacts.”
Supporters can click on the “Voices” page to see how donations supported Izzy from the Catholic Charities Unaccompanied Refugee Minor program; or learn how the Pastoral Ministry Retreat supports Letty Ruiz as a catechist at her parish. Site visitors can also hear how the vocations ministry supported Kathleen McMullan as she answered the call of God; and discover how Father P.J. Curley is supported through donations to retired priests. And lastly, read how youth ministry supports Carrie Lambert and the youth of her parish at St. Mary Basilica in Natchez.
“Let us reflect, remember and renew all those who are served by the ministries supported by the Catholic Service Appeal. With your gift you are our ‘Hope Rising,'” says Bishop Joseph Kopacz.
There are several ways to give to the 2022 Catholic Service Appeal. Pledge cards can be mailed to PO Box 22723; Jackson, MS 39225; supporters can visit csa.jacksondiocese.org to donate online; or text to give at 601-706-5858.
Gifts of stocks can also be made to support the CSA. For more information on the CSA, contact Rebecca Harris at (601) 960-8477.