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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In his homily announcing this Jubilee Year of Mercy, Pope Francis said, “No one can be excluded from the mercy of God.
Its doors remain wide open, so that those touched by grace can find the certainty of forgiveness.”Our diocesan offices and the work that we do are shaped by the corporal and spiritual works of mercy that scripture gives us. Living Mercy, the theme of this year’s Annual Diocesan Appeal, reflects our lifelong journey of faith which began
with our Baptism.The Annual Diocesan Appeal provides many services which support our parish religious education programs and Catholic schools to proclaim the good news of Christ’s mercy. The Diocese invests in educating our seminarians and our deacon candidates, as well as the ongoing formation of our clergy. They, in turn, lead and inspire mercy in the 97,000 Catholics
in our seventy-eight parishes in southeastern Iowa.
To those seeking mercy, our marriage annulment process promotes healing following a divorce.
Project Rachel, a confidential, post-abortion ministry offers hope and healing to women and men in our diocese who are hurting following an abortion.
Our Social Action and Catholic Charities Office promotes the works of mercy. Unity House, a transitional housing program for men in recovery from addiction, receives technical and moral support from our staff and volunteers. Our Immigration Office assists US citizens and legal permanent residents to petition for work permits and for their immediate relatives to join them here.
Please prayerfully consider a pledge to support our diocesan ministries through the Annual Diocesan Appeal. Your commitment ensures that your parish ministries continue to be enriched so that we may journey together as missionary disciples of Christ. Thank you for your ongoing support.
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Most Rev. Martin Amos
Bishop of Davenport