Dear Friends,
 
       I’m writing to invite you to participate in Archbishop Etienne’s 2023 Annual Catholic Appeal. This Appeal is all about being Catholic, all about being part of a Church that stretches far beyond the boundaries of our own parish. The Annual Catholic Appeal is a combined effort of 169 parishes to support a vibrant Catholic community in Western Washington. The Appeal funds Catholic social outreach ministries, programs for youth and young adults, seminarians, Catholic schools, Hispanic and multicultural ministry, as well as administrative support for parishes including liturgy guidance, human resources, and much more.
 
        The Archbishop’s goal for this year’s Appeal is $11 million and, of this amount, our own parish of St. James Cathedral is being asked to raise $383,376 (which is $64,000 more than last year!). Everything given over and above that amount will come back to the parish for our own needs. This year we intend to use the rebate to enhance the Terry and Marion entrance to the Cathedral, which has become the Cathedral’s main entrance. We’ll begin with some notable upgrades to the interior vestibule and restrooms. Eventually, I dream of changes to the exterior entrance to make the Cathedral an even more welcoming place. We have set our rebate goal for this year at $180,000, which brings our total goal to $563,376. It is a daunting figure, but I am confident we can meet it.
 
         Would you please consider making a gift to this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal? You can fill out and return the enclosed pledge card, or make your gift online at archseattle.org/GiveACA.
 
         As always, I am profoundly grateful for all the ways you support St. James Cathedral and the work of the Church in Western Washington. May God abundantly bless you during these beautiful Easter days.
 
                                                Sincerely yours in Christ,
 
 
                                                Father Michael G. Ryan