Catholic Services Appeal Weekend (October 28-29)

Dear Parishioner:
 

This weekend is an important one for the Diocese of Austin—it is the launch of our annual Catholic Services Appeal (CSA). This appeal impacts thousands of people in our diocese. Our own parish is directly supported by the CSA. With the funds we raise, our diocese will be able to do so much good for our community, including the following:

• Educate and form our seminarians to be future priests.
• Give spiritual guidance through religious education and Sacrament preparation programs.
• Help people grow closer to Christ through retreats held at the Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center.
• Repair, maintain, and build new facilities.
• Offer tuition assistance for children to attend Catholic schools.
• Strengthen families through the diocesan Office of Life, Marriage, and Family which offers leadership programs, support for families with new babies, and much more.
• Care for our active and retired clergy.
• Hold conferences and retreats for young people to grow in their faith.

This weekend we read in Matthew 22:34-40 that the two greatest commandments are to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and to love your neighbor as yourself. The CSA gives you the opportunity to show your love for God and others. In fact, the entire point of the CSA is to share God’s love in tangible ways with our community.

For some people, the CSA may even bring about the miracle they have been praying for. That is why Bishop Joe S. Vásquez chose the theme “Be a Miracle” for this year’s appeal. Imagine the joy you bring to others as they grow close to Christ, have their marriage restored, receive the funds they need for their child to attend Catholic school—these things are all made possible by the CSA.

We are most effective in showing our love for God and others when we work together. Make your gift to the CSA by visiting www.austindiocese.org/give and know that in doing so, you are helping those most in need.

Please know that you are in my prayers and may God bless you!

Ad Jesum per Mariam,

Fr. Francisco Rodriguez III