As we launch the 2024 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal with the theme “One Body, One Spirit in Christ,” we invite our parishioners to join us in this vital mission, not just as members of the Church of Wilmington but as partners in a journey of transformation and service.
This Appeal is a beacon of hope and unity, calling each of us to play our part in a story much larger than ourselves—a story of faith, hope, and love in action.
My personal journey with the Church and its ministries has profoundly shaped my understanding of what it means to serve and be served, to give and to receive. There was a time when my family found ourselves in a place of unexpected need, a time when the world seemed to close in around us with little light in sight. It was then that the ministries of our Catholic Church, especially Catholic Charities and Catholic Education became a beacon of hope for us, offering support and solace in our time of desperation. The ministries of our Church and the compassionate outreach we received were a hand extended in our darkest hour, embodying Christ’s love and mercy in the most tangible way possible.
The formation ministries for youth and young adults have touched my children’s lives, guiding them through their formative years with a sense of purpose and belonging within the faith community. Witnessing their growth and the positive impact of these ministries on their lives has been a source of great joy and gratitude. It has shown me the vital role these programs play in nurturing the spiritual and moral development of our young people, ensuring they have a strong foundation in their faith to carry with them throughout their lives.
Now, finding myself in the unique and cathartic position of serving in this ministry of fundraising, I am reminded of the cyclical nature of giving and receiving. It is a profound honor to contribute to ensuring these ministries are funded and able to serve people throughout the Diocese of Wilmington. This work is not just a professional obligation but a personal calling—a way to give back to the community that has given so much to my family and me.
This year’s Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal is more than a campaign; it’s a testament to the power of our collective action and the profound impact we can have when we come together in the spirit of generosity. It is an invitation to each of you to join in this mission, to share in the joy of giving, and to experience the grace that comes from serving others.
As we move forward, let this appeal be a reminder of our shared responsibility and privilege to be part of something greater than ourselves. Let us embrace this opportunity to participate, contribute, and make a difference in the lives of those around us. Together, as one body and one spirit in Christ, we can continue to build a church that is united, strengthened, and ready to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Join us in this journey of faith and service. Your participation, in any form, will not only help sustain the vital ministries of our diocese but will also be a testament to the power of our faith in action. Together, let’s ensure that the Church of Wilmington remains a beacon of hope, love, and unity for all.
Sheila McGirl is director of the Office of Development for the Diocese of Wilmington,
