By David Dolores
Thanks to the strong spirit of giving and stewardship among the faithful of our diocese, we can report two significant milestones in the DDF Annual Appeal and Bishop Rojas’ Golf Classic.
With profound gratitude and joy, the Office of Mission Advancement is thrilled to announce a historic achievement in last year’s DDF Annual Appeal. For the first time ever, together we have raised $8.1 million, surpassing all previous records and demonstrating the extraordinary generosity and faith of our parishioners. Of the total funds raised, $5.17 million is allocated to diocesan ministries that serve and strengthen our local Church. These ministries include support for seminarian education, Catholic Charities, hospital chaplains, faith formation programs, youth and young adult ministry, and care for the most vulnerable in our communities. Through these vital efforts, lives are touched, families are supported, and faith is nurtured every single day. The remaining funds will be returned to our parishes, providing critical resources for local improvements, renovations, and capital needs.
In addition to this extraordinary accomplishment, the Bishop Rojas’ Golf Tournament also made history this year, raising an unprecedented $165,142, which is the highest amount ever recorded for the event. The proceeds from the tournament directly benefit the Catholic Schools Endowment, which provides scholarships to students and families seeking a Catholic education. These funds help ensure that financial circumstances never stand in the way of forming young people in faith and academic excellence.
The faithful of the diocese have also contributed generously to the annual Spring Combined Collection, generating more than $323,000, and the Fall Combined Collections, generating nearly $300,000.
These two historic achievements reflect the unity in our Diocese, the dedication of our pastors and parish staff, and the countless volunteers and benefactors who believe deeply in the mission of the Church. To all who contributed we thank you for your generosity and support of our shared mission.
David Dolores is the Senior Development Officer in the Diocesan Office of Mission Advancement.