We all know that life can change in an instant. A lost job, an unexpected bill, a family crisis, a difficult diagnosis, or a relationship in trouble can leave someone wondering where to turn. As members of one Catholic family, the faithful have both a responsibility and a beautiful opportunity to care for one another. The Diocesan Annual Appeal creates that opportunity. It offers a means to reach out beyond individual parishes and into the lives of people throughout our diocese. 

The 2027 Diocesan Annual Appeal will kick off Pledge Sunday Weekend, Sept. 26-27, with the theme, “The Way Forward.” Pledges made by the faithful during the weekend go to more than just programs and ministries of the diocese. It will go to Christ’s work in the lives of others - providing food when the pantry is bare, helping with rent or utilities, or counseling when a marriage or family is struggling. 

“There is no gift too small when it is given with love,” explained Allen McClendon, director of the diocesan Office of Stewardship and Development. “What matters is that, together, we respond.”

The Diocesan Annual Appeal is an opportunity to look beyond ourselves and remember that we are part of something much larger: one Church, one family, united in Christ. Look for pledge cards in the pews or visit catholiccharitiesbhm.org.