Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Jesus asks Peter a question three times in the Gospel of John that He asks each of us: “Do you love me?”
Most of us, like Peter, would say, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” And just as He did with Peter, Jesus recognizes the limitations of our love, calls us all to His fold as disciples, and asks us to tend to one another – His sheep.
Our love for God grows our love for others. The more love we have for Him, the more our love motivates us to reach out to our brothers and sisters in Christ – the more we can tend to one another.
Your contribution to the 2022 Diocesan Appeal helps tend to the many needs of our Church. The funds from this appeal support our parishes, our priests, and ministries of the Diocese of Rockford that in turn tend to the faithful and ensure that young and old continue to be nurtured in the sacraments and educated in the faith.
Your gift to the 2022 Diocesan Appeal can also be your response to God’s call to care for others. Along with addressing the spiritual needs of its flock, the Church is committed to caring for families, children, and the elderly who are challenged in meeting basic needs. Those struggling to find food, clothing, and shelter; women afraid of unplanned pregnancies; refugees searching for a place to call home; the elderly who wonder if they are alone – our love for God compels us to respond to all of these, in love.
We are called as Catholics to treat all with dignity and respect, and to tend to all God’s creation in love and true service. May you give generously to the 2022 Diocesan Appeal, as we all work together to love the Lord, and our neighbor. And, may our love and service inspire others to do the same.
I am grateful for you and whatever you are able to give. Be assured of my continued prayers for you and your family.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Bishop David J Malloy
Bishop of Rockford