We begin 2022 thankful for our many blessings, taking account of all that God has given us. Each new year brings new resolutions and goals.  Whether it be improved fitness, reaching out to loved ones, or becoming financially secure, we all have our list. 

Of course, the most important and lasting resolution we can make is to forge a closer relationship with God, to continue to work toward becoming a better person and living the word of Jesus each day. Part of our journey is predicated on having faith that while we persevere, God is right by our side, taking each step with us. When faced with the many challenges of the past two years, we take comfort in many passages of the Bible. One of my favorites is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and on your own intelligence do not rely. In all your ways, be mindful of Him, and He will make straight your paths.” 

While we do not know what 2022 has in store, we do know that together, each of us, with the help of God, will face the challenges with a renewed sense of hope and confidence. We will yet again remind ourselves to “Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7. 

The Annual Catholic Appeal, “One Faith, One Family,” gives us an opportunity to do the work of Jesus daily by enabling our diocesan ministries to provide spiritual, physical and educational support to many in our community. Whether it be receiving meals from St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich, and St. Vincent de Paul, Middletown or groceries and diapers from Catholic Charities, with locations throughout the diocese; comfort from our Ministry to the Sick; spiritual support from the outreach programs of our Office of Faith Events or the educational opportunities provided to our seminarians and youth, the reach of our ACA supported ministries is great. 

As always, we end our Annual Catholic Appeal year with great gratitude for our many generous donors. We know many have faced challenges this past year and nevertheless dug deep into their pockets to continue to make their donations to the ACA. 

We cannot express how much your kindness means to our ministries and the people they serve. We are very happy to report that the 2021 ACA reached its goal for the first time since 2007. This is truly a testament to the many parishioners who have chosen to share some of their hard-earned money to enrich the lives of others. 

As of Dec. 6, just over $3 million in gifts and pledges have been made to the ACA, with 23 of our parishes at or above goal and 36 at 90% or more of goal.  

With God’s help we truly came together as “One Faith, One Family.” 

While we look ahead to our 2022 Annual Catholic Appeal, which we will launch in March, we hope you will see fit to renew your generous commitment to the ACA. In the meantime, if you have not completed your pledge payments, you may contact Heather Harris at hharris@norwichdiocese.net or (860) 886-1928 to do so. Thank you and may God continue to keep you safe and bless you in 2022.

By Mary Ellen Mahoney