Donors’ Generosity Knows No Bounds

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

The Annual Catholic Appeal is thrilled to announce that two wonderful donors, the Rossi Foundation and the Padre Pio Foundation of America, have generously agreed to match 50% of every new donation that the ACA receives between September 12, 2022, through December 15, 2022. This is the first time that anything like this has been done for the ACA and we are beyond appreciative. Ted and Ruth Rossi, founders of the Rossi Foundation, parishioners of St. Mary Church, Portland, have always dug deep into their pockets to support the ACA.

The Padre Pio Foundation of America, located in Cromwell, Connecticut was established in 1977 to promote devotion to Padre Pio and continue his legacy of love and caring for those less fortunate.

Padre Pio was a 20th century Italian Capuchin priest, responsible for numerous miracles, who was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2002.

Andrew Becker, president of the Board of Padre Pio of Foundation of America, shared, “We are delighted to be able to join the Rossi Foundation in supporting the Annual Catholic Appeal – especially in such a manner as to inspire other donors to examine their hearts and checkbooks so that its goal may be reached. We have been grateful for the Bishop’s support of our mission and are so pleased to be able to express our gratitude in this manner.”

“The Rossi Foundation has contributed to the ACA for over 50 years. We have always been impressed by the tremendous impact the ACA has on the many ministries within our Diocese, helping those most in need. We are thankful for the opportunity to join with the Padre Pio Foundation in a matching contribution that allows the goal to be reached and this important work and support of our ministries to continue.” Ted and Ruth Rossi.

We know how financially difficult this year has been for many and we are asking all of our parishioners and readers to come together as “One Faith, One Family,” joining the Rossi Foundation and the Padre Pio Foundation of America in helping us reach the goal that will enable our very important ministries to continue the life-changing work of Christ on our behalf.

We have currently reached approximately 89% of our 2023 goal with only 15% parishioners donating. If the 85% who have yet to participate, donate something and those who have already donated make another small gift, we will be well on our way to reaching our goal. To put it simply, if together, we make $202,116 in new donations, the Rossi Foundation and Padre Foundation of America will donate $100,558, bringing us to our goal of $2,700,000.

Please open your piggy banks, pull up the couch cushions and make your new gifts today. Also, please join me in thanking the Rossi Foundation and Padre Pio Foundation of America for their tremendous kindness.

I have long loved Padre Pio and often call to mind one of his most famous quotes, “Pray, hope, and don’t worry.” I am going to follow his advice and believe that our 2023 will be met. To donate to the 2023 Annual Catholic Appeal, please call our Campaign Manager, Heather Harris at (860) 8861926, ext. 111 or go online at www.norwichdiocese.net, You may also send checks made payable to the ACA, with your parish name in the memo line to the ACA Office, 197 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360. Thank you very much for your support.

By Father Brian Maxwell

Once again we begin the 40 Days For Life Campaign, across our Diocese, America, and around the World, to peacefully pray for the end of abortion.

Following the Supreme Court override of Roe vs. Wade back in June, some abortion advocates throughout the country began protests, attacked some early pregnancy centers, damaged a few churches, and threatened to disrupt Masses.

Our parish pro-life reps and pastors are concerned for people’s safety and possible danger regarding this year’s 40 Days For Life Campaign.

A number have fears of opposition. Some wish not to participate praying out on the