2021 Diocesan Appeal    

My Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:

“Bear Much Fruit”

“I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” Throughout this disruptive global pandemic, Jesus has been with us. His Church in this diocese has persevered, striving to remain connected to its people, sometimes in new and unique ways.

The Diocese of Rockford has provided programs and personnel to help you as parishioners of the diocese remain connected to Jesus through the sacraments as much as possible. We are proud of parish priests and their staff members who have been flexible and creative in their efforts to keep in touch with their parish community.

The diocese continues its efforts to support parishes and priests, students and parents, and the poor of our communities. For example, Catholic Charities supports our brothers and sisters in Christ through a multitude of programs to address their needs for food, clothing, counseling, and emergency assistance. Those who are helped include refugees, immigrants, young mothers, young children and teens, the elderly, and others who feel isolated and greatly challenged by the pandemic.

Another example of connecting people to Christ is our Diocesan Education Office, which has provided valuable guidance and resources to our Catholic schools and religious education programs. Those efforts surely will bear fruit for the future of the Church.

Pandemic or not, in all years, we must remain connected to the vine, which is Jesus. This annual Diocesan Appeal helps make that possible. We appreciate your kind gift in this challenging year.

Be assured of my continued prayers for you that you will stay safe and healthy throughout the remainder of this pandemic, and bear good fruits of faith.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Bishop David J Malloy
Bishop of Rockford

To learn more or to donate, please visit the Diocesan Stewardship Appeal website.