Once again, the diocesan Catholic Ministries Appeal has enjoyed a record-breaking response.
The 37th-annual appeal, begun this past fall, concluded on May 31. CMA commitments totaled $6.449 million raised, or 98.45 percent of the campaign’s set goal of $6.55 million. This amount surpasses the previous record established in 2016-17, when $6,231,250 was raised.
Doug Mandelaro, director of the diocesan Office of Stewardship and Communications, noted that the 2017-18 Catholic Ministries Appeal has been bolstered by support from more than 26,600 donors. In addition, Mandelaro said, this marks the 10th straight year the CMA has established a new record total — and it was reached by late April, more than a month before the campaign concluded. Through May 30 more than half of the diocesan parishes had exceeded their predetermined CMA goals.
“It has been so gratifying, being in touch with the pastors who are very excited about reaching their (CMA) goals,” said Colleen Brade, who began April 30 as associate diocesan director of Stewardship and Communications. She will serve as CMA coordinator.
Campaign proceeds provide funding for more than half the diocesan budget. Contributions fully or partially support many programs, services and ministries around the 12-county Diocese of Rochester.
“These are very challenging economic times, but the people always seem to find room in their budget to support these critical ministerial needs. We’re just thrilled,” Mandelaro said.
