Archdiocese gives big thank you after annual appeal raises $9.63 M
The Archdiocese of Newark’s 2022 Annual Appeal has surpassed its goal of $9 million, raising over $9.63 million, according to the Office of Development and Stewardship of the Archdiocese of Newark.
For the second year in a row, Catholics throughout the Archdiocese showed overwhelming financial support for the Archdiocese’s charitable programs and ministries funded through the Annual Appeal. Over 25,000 families participated in this year’s appeal — 3,000 for the first time — according to the 2022 impact report.
Last year, was the first time in 10 years to raise more than its goal of $9 million even though the economy was affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Catholic donors once again showed tremendous support in 2022 even while facing high gas and food prices, said Thomas Smith, Director Office of Development and Stewardship for the Archdiocese.
“The need didn’t go away; it only became greater. This year’s stewardship reflects the blessings felt by many and the desire to share those blessings with others,” Smith said.
The average donation amount increased by $24 to $379, with online donations averaging $435 this year, Smith said.
The funds will help 87 Catholic charity programs at over 26 sites and touch over 62,000 of the disadvantaged, said Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R, Archbishop of Newark.
Cardinal Tobin thanked the parishioners of the Archdiocese for their support.
“Despite the ongoing challenging economy, the success of the 2022 Annual Appeal is a monument to the faith, charity, and dedication of the people of this Archdiocese of Newark. The critical Church ministries that enrich the lives of our sisters and brothers in Christ are kept vibrant thanks to you, our parishioners. You play a significant role in the success of our Archdiocese,” Cardinal Tobin said. “Thank you for your overwhelming generosity, time, and support of the Archdiocese of Newark. All gifts, spiritual or financial, make a huge difference in the life and vitality of our parishes and the community of the Archdiocese of Newark. Through this, and because of your support, we can continue to accomplish great things in the Archdiocese of Newark and continue to share in the saving mission of Jesus Christ.”
The appeal for funding is broken down into four categories:
- Proclaiming the Gospel ($1 million goal) — Funding for ministry to multi-ethnic communities, family-life programs, international missions, and ministry with the deaf.
- Caring for the Poor and Vulnerable ($3.5 million goal) — Funding for Catholic Charities, hospital and prison ministries, ministry with persons with disabilities, pro-life efforts, and protection of God’s children.
- Passing on the Faith ($2 million goal)— Funding of youth and young adult programs, faith formation, and campus ministries, and tuition support for Catholic schools.
- Forming Future Priests & Supporting Retired Clergy ($2.5 million goal) — Funding for continuing formation for priests, seminarian education, and priest health care.
In 2022, The Mercy House distributed 80,000 pounds of food, 200,00 diapers and wipes to mothers, and 800 toys to children, according to the 2022 impact report.
Smith credited the success of this year’s Appeal to the pastors’ clear messages to their parishes.
“They offered an invitation to be part of the Catholic church’s mission,” Smith said.
Seventy nine percent of the parishes — 167 out of 212 — have surpassed their individual goals in the fundraising effort set by the Archdiocese. This is a 351% increase or nearly four times the number of parishes compared to 2018. Churches that surpass their goal will receive money back, with over $2 million going back to individual parishes, Smith said.
“Thank you to the parishioners of our parish communities,” Smith said. “Your sacrifice, generosity, and participation in the Annual Appeal provide the resources to make ministry possible and are an answer to the call of Discipleship. Also, thank you to our pastors, parish, and Archdiocesan staff for leading and advancing our church mission. Together, we can accomplish great things in our Archdiocese.”
The 2022 Annual Appeal, which includes participation of 212 parishes in Union, Bergen, Hudson, and Essex counties began in January and will end in December.
Donors can still give by visiting the Archdiocese website.
Featured image: In a video, Cardinal Tobin thanked the parishioners of the Archdiocese for their support. (Screenshot from video)
