The Annual Catholic Appeal is all about being Catholic, all about being part of a Church that stretches far beyond the reach of our own parish.  The Annual Catholic Appeal is an opportunity for us to respond to the needs of the larger Church.  It acknowledges that no parish—not even a great one like ours—can possibly accomplish the Church’s entire mission. The Appeal allows us to support the education and training of our seminarians, our retired priests and sisters, our system of Catholic schools, and much more.
 
The Archbishop’s goal for this year’s Appeal is $11.5 million and, of this amount, our own parish of St. James Cathedral is being asked to contribute $352,297.  Our parish has responded magnificently to the Appeal in past years and I know you well enough to believe that you will do the same this year.  If you’ve never given before, or aren’t sure what to give, would you consider a gift of $365 ($1 per day)?
 
I will be grateful if you will fill out the enclosed pledge card and bring it with you to Mass on Sunday, April 17.  Or if you prefer, you can return in the enclosed postage-paid envelope, or make your pledge online here:

https://www.seattlearchdiocese.org/Stewardship/ACA/Donate.aspx

And remember:  you’re encouraged to spread out your payments over a period of ten months.  You may even use your credit card or direct debit from your bank account.  You may even pick up some frequent flier miles!
 
A very important note!  Everything given over and above the $352,297 goal will come back to the parish for our own parish needs.  This year we have greater need than ever of this rebate!  The rebate will help offset the considerable costs of our programs for youth—Children’s Faith Formation, Youth Ministry, and our Youth Music Program. Our rebate goal is $200,000, bringing our total goal for the 2016 Appeal to $552,297.

Father Ryan