Archdiocese of St. Louis

April 22/22, 2012—Third Sunday of Easter
A Call to Generosity
This week we hear the words of scripture announcing the most wonderful gift of the forgiveness
of sins. The readings talk of the wonders that come to those who are faithful, a gladness, security and a
peace of mind and heart. We are told the love and the truth of Christ will be perfected in us. What must we
do? Keep his word and his commandments.
As you prayerfully consider a pledge to the Annual Catholic Appeal examine your conscience and
ask if you have fully accepted the commandment of love – this call to be generous with the gifts God has
given to you.
Thank you in advance for answering the Call to Generosity.
April 29/30, 2012—Fourth Sunday of Easter
A Call to Generosity
The stone rejected by the builders as inferior becomes the cornerstone; those who are called the
children of God are not recognized by the world; and finally the one hired to watch the sheep runs away
when danger approaches. Rejected, unaccepted by the world, left alone by those who we thought would be
there.
What are we left with: The cornerstone. A beloved father. A good shepherd. The letter by St. John
offers an amazing and almost unbelievable fact: “we shall be like him” (1 Jn. 3:2).
As you prayerfully consider a pledge to the Annual Catholic Appeal consider this call to
generosity: to be like him . . . the cornerstone, the beloved father, the good shepherd who did not run away
but rather laid down his life for his flock.
Thank you in advance for answering the Call to Generosity.
May 5/6, 2012—Fifth Sunday of Easter
A Call to Generosity
The readings for the Fifth Sunday of Easter make two things quite clear. First, it is important to
speak up boldly in the name of the Lord. Second, words alone are not sufficient. “Children, let us love not
in word or speech, but in deed and truth” (1 Jn. 3:18).
A pledge to the Annual Catholic Appeal is not the only way we can witness to our faith. But it is a
unique opportunity to match our words with our actions. You may never have taught in the classroom of a
Catholic School, or worked in a soup kitchen or visited the sick in a nursing home. But you can make all
of these activities and more possible with a gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal.
As you prayerfully consider the invitation to make a sacrificial gift know that your gift will mean
our parishes, schools and agencies will be better able to fulfill the commandment of love and prepare
enthusiastically to meet the challenges of today’s world.
Thank you in advance for answering the Call to Generosity.
2/12 Bulletin Announcements 5.5