“ARISE” is the theme of this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal.

My dear friends, in this past year often our hearts were troubled, our families threatened, and our neighbors and friends have suffered at the hands of this invisible menace in our midst. Yet we have come together in hope and encouragement for one another and for our sisters and brothers in need, and we have made the Lord’s presence real to them and to one another. And for that, my friends, I am deeply grateful.

“Arise,” you and I, with a renewed sense of encouragement and hope that God’s love is always present to us, even in the darkest hours. Arise in solidarity as sisters and brothers to support one another, to allow each other to move forward, to face whatever challenges we face– personal, familial, or communal; and “Arise” to not leave anyone behind, most especially those who are suffering, have lost homes, have lost jobs, and even have lost hope.

I come to you, my friends, this day to ask that you rise with the Lord and with me to the challenge before us by continuing your generous support for the programs and ministries that address the needs of our neighbors and friends, and those in our midst whom this pandemic has ravaged so deeply. We arise by standing together in prayerful hope to strengthen the mission of the Church which we form, a people of the light in darkness, a people of hope despite challenge.

This week you will receive information by mail about our 2021, Arise Annual Catholic Appeal and how your support assists the ministries and programs our parishes cannot provide to the community on their own.  We cannot do it without you and I am immensely grateful for your support of works of Faith and Ministry; Education and Catechesis; and Charity and Pastoral Services the Appeal provides to all people in the Diocese of Bridgeport.  


Sincerely,

Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano
Bishop of Bridgeport
Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. – James 1:17​