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Saturday, September 17, 2005     Page: 17A

This year’s Diocese of Scranton Annual Appeal will begin with an
announcement in all area Roman Catholic parishes this weekend. The campaign
goal of $4.4 million equals last year’s goal.
   
This year’s theme, “Together in Faith,” reflects the need for all Catholics
to consider how they can help promote the Gospel of Jesus Christ through their
support for the campaign.
    A recorded message from Bishop Joseph F. Martino will be heard in all
parishes before conducting the in-pew sign-up process.
   
Those who can make larger gifts are encouraged to join the Diocesan
Stewards Guild, instituted last year by Martino. In August, a prayer service
and reception took place at the Fatima Renewal Center in Dalton for members
that joined the guild last year. At the reception, Martino thanked members for
their good stewardship and asked them for their help in this year’s appeal.
   
Members of the Steward’s Guild and other donors who have made large past
donations will be invited to participate again with pledges from $1,000 to
$10,000 or more. Those gifts and contributions of any amount will support
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.
   
Monsignor Peter P. Madus, moderator for this year’s appeal, said the
campaign provides funding for many vital programs that support the life of the
diocese and all its parishes.
   
More than 400 members of parish leadership teams have attended workshops
throughout the diocese. Information on conducting the appeal was provided
along with ways to strengthen stewardship in their parishes.
   
A mailing will be sent to all parishioners Wednesday to assure that
everyone is invited to participate.