Dear Friends:

It has been a great gift for me to have been named your Bishop and I am humbled and filled with gratitude for the support and welcome that you have shared with me. During these initial visits with our parishes, schools and ministries, I have enjoyed being able to meet so many of you and I look forward to continuing to connect with, and serve, all of our people in the coming months and years ahead.

What I have repeatedly heard is how much you all love and care for our church; I know that together we will continue to dedicate our lives to Jesus and the mission of the Catholic Church.

It is during this Lenten season that we are especially reminded of Pope Francis’ words that, “Mercy is the beating heart of the Gospel and the Church’s Mission.” Our local Catholic Ministries Appeal is a wonderful way for each of us to hear and respond to His Holiness’ message.

With one donation, the annual Catholic Ministries Appeal allows each of us to help a wide variety of people as it supports our church’s efforts in evangelization, liturgy and worship. It enables the continuation and growth of our youth and young adult ministries and cares for our poor and disadvantaged neighbors. It also supports religious education programs and the formation and vocations for our Seminarians and our Deacons.

This Lent, I ask that you join with me in supporting our Mission of Mercy by contributing to the Catholic Ministries Appeal. My own sincere thanks will be joined to the gratitude of more than 600,000 people who will benefit deeply for your kindness and generosity.

Thank you for all that you do and know that I look forward to walking with you on this journey as we work together to help build God’s Kingdom in our community and beyond.
I will keep you and your family in my Masses and prayers.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend John O. Barres
Bishop of Rockville Centre