Why the New ACA Video Matters — and Why Every Catholic in the Diocese Should Watch It

The 2026 Annual Catholic Appeal is not simply about meeting a goal. It is about seeing, with fresh eyes, what the Church is doing right here in our own diocese through faith put into action.

This weekend, March 7 and 8, parishes across the Diocese of Norwich began sharing the new ACA video.

It is worth taking a few minutes to watch.

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More Than a Fundraising Video

A good video does more than explain a campaign. It reminds us that the Annual Catholic Appeal is not an abstract diocesan program somewhere “out there.” It is the concrete, daily work of the Church in our parishes, our ministries, and our communities.

The video helps connect the appeal envelope in our hands with the people and ministries those gifts support. It shows that ACA funding helps sustain ministries that serve the vulnerable, form the faithful, foster vocations, and care for retired priests.

That matters.

Seeing the Bigger Picture

Too often, people hear the words “annual appeal” and think only of fundraising. But the Church has always invited the faithful to see giving as something deeper: an act of participation in mission.

That is one of the real strengths of the video. It helps viewers understand that the Appeal is not merely about numbers. It is about people. It is about lives touched, needs met, and the Gospel carried forward in real and practical ways.

A Chance to Hear the Bishop’s Vision

There is also something timely and fitting about hearing directly from Bishop Reidy. As he continues getting to know the Diocese of Norwich, the ACA video offers the faithful a chance to hear his voice and share in his vision for a Church united in faith and action.

So yes, watch the video.

Then, having watched, respond.

The Commitment Weekend for the 2026 Annual Catholic Appeal is March 14 and 15. Before then, take a few moments to view the video, reflect on what it represents, and consider what part you can play. The video is brief. The impact is not.

Because when we support the Annual Catholic Appeal, we are doing more than funding ministries.

We are strengthening the Church’s mission in eastern Connecticut. We are helping faith become visible. And we are showing, once again, what it means to live as one in Christ.

Wayne Gignac
Communications Director and
Executive Editor of the Four County Catholic