From the Cardinal

2022 Annual Catholic Appeal MAKING ALL THINGS NEW… God's promise and our responsiblity

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

The Christian life unfolds in a basic rhythm — we receive God’s gifts, and we share them with others. This is the essence of stewardship. It is the path of expressing our gratitude to the Lord and taking up our responsibility to extend his reach in our world.

The theme for this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal frames that rhythm exactly: Making all things new … God’s promise and our responsibility. The promise of renewal comes into our lives as a life-giving and hope-filled gift, especially in these challenging times. And we assume our responsibility by extending that promise of renewal, as we share our time, talent and treasure.

Another image drawn from the Gospels helps me understand the receiving and then the giving of God’s gifts. Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” (Jn 8:12) He is the Father’s promised gift of light that breaks the darkness of a world enveloped by sin and death. Jesus also says to us, “You are the light of the world” (Mt 5:14), meaning that having received his light, we are now summoned to be that light for others. We receive the gift; we give the gift.

You may have noticed that the title of this magazine has changed to simply Lumen, the Latin word for “light.” This better captures God’s gift to us all and our responsibility to share that gift.

Through your prayers, selfless service and financial support, you bring the gift of God’s light and promise into the world. You truly take your responsibility seriously and for this — and I now speak in the name of the Archdiocese of Chicago — I offer you my gratitude and encouragement to continue on this path.

May the good Lord bless and keep you and your loved ones, as we continue our journey together and look forward to the fulfillment of God’s promise of making all things new.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Chicago Catholic Karen Callaway/