Dear Parishioners,

The 2020 Catholic Charities Annual Appeal will take place on the weekend of February 8-9, 2020 in our parish. The theme for the 2020 CCAA “Faces of Hope” reminds us that though we are many, we are one in Christ. As missionary disciples, we work together to respond to all those in need throughout northeast Ohio.

One portion of the Catholic Charities Appeal highlights the work of an outreach recovery center in Akron and the dollars raised this year will continue to support this needed service! It is located at the parish of Saint John the Baptist.

Tom Arthur is a “recovery coach” at the center and enjoys the connections he makes with those he serves at the St. John the Baptist Recovery Outreach Center in Akron. He himself has battled substance abuse, and that makes his job that much more personal.

“Recovery is something that I need in order to live and that I need to share. To be able to do that through Catholic Charities has just been overwhelming for me…” – Tom Arthur

The Recovery Outreach Center opened in April 2019 thanks in large part to the 2018 Annual Catholic Charities Parish Appeal earmarked for expanding substance abuse programs. Because of this, an addiction-free future becomes more attainable for members of the community. “By donating to Catholic Charities, you’ve helped save lives,” Tom Arthur says.

Please refer to the insert in this week’s bulletin which includes our parish’s goal of $90,357.00 and an overview of the importance of Catholic Charities in our communities. Your generous support will transform the lives of others, to offer dignity, possibilities and companionship to those who are most vulnerable.

As in the past, an in-pew commitment process will take place on the weekend, February 8-9. All who have not received the mailing from Bishop Perez, or have not had a chance to respond to it, will be asked to consider making a generous pledge to support the ministries and services provided by Catholic Charities.

If you have received the mailing, please respond generously to it and we ask you to also complete the in-pew envelope and indicate by checking the box that you have responded by mail.

Many blessings,
Father Jim