“It’s the People” is the theme for the 2004 Catholic Family Sharing Appeal.
“We want to focus on the stories of the people who benefit through CFSA-funded ministries made possible by the great generosity of the people of eastern South Dakota,” said Kevin Miles, Stewardship/CFSA director for the Diocese of Sioux Falls. “From TV Mass viewers, to catechists receiving training, to students at our Newman Centers, there are some wonderful stories of what CFSA makes possible each year.”
CFSA is the annual funding drive which provides money to support the work of the bishop, and to operate ongoing education, communication, and other programs. It is one of the most successful appeals of its kind in the country, with more than two-thirds of Catholics in eastern South Dakota participating.
CFSA 2004 effort will begin on February 14 and 15 with education weekend, followed by commitment weekend in the first Sunday of Lent, February 21-22.
CFSA is distinct from the “Share! First to the Lord” stewardship campaign because it is held each year to support the ongoing operational costs of the diocese. Funds collected from CFSA make up almost 50% of the diocesan annual budget.
The “Share! First to the Lord” stewardship campaign is a one time effort in each parish to teach about stewardship, and to raise capital funds for the Priest Retirement endowment, Seminarian Education endowment, educational technology endowment, Broomtree Retreat Center and the ongoing improvements to St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
“CFSA continues to fund the ministries of today and “Share! First to the Lord” is working to ensure a strong future for our diocese,” said Miles. “Many communities have addressed many needs within their local parish and have generously shared a portion of their gifts with the diocese.
These gifts will help us in the future, but ministries like The Bishop’s Bulletin, vocations recruitment and awareness, seminarian expenses, Catholic Family Services, youth programming and many others need CFSA’s assistance on an annual basis.”
You can find out more about CFSA 2004 through your parish and the Stewardship/CFSA Office at 605-988-3787 or at www.sfcatholic.org.