Message from CEO: Christmas Envelope Collection

This Advent, I invite you to consider the words of St. Josemaria Escriva, “We are not the source of light, we only reflect it.”

As the days grow darker on our journey toward Christmas, I am reminded of how much light surrounds us during this season. From the gentle glow of Christmas trees to the colorful rays illuminating homes, these lights are a reminder of the true Light we are called to reflect. In these final days of Advent, let us consider how we can share this Light with others.

Through our work at Catholic Charities, the Light of Christ is brought to our most vulnerable neighbors during the coldest and darkest times of the year. Our food pantries, Christmas Programs, mental health ministries, and more than 20 other programs are lifelines for those in need, while offering the warmth of compassion.

As the Human Services Arm of the Church, Catholic Charities fulfills the charitable mission entrusted to us by the faithful in our Diocese. Simply put, we cannot do this without your support. 88 cents of every donated dollar goes towards our programming.

In your parish envelopes, you will find a special collection envelope for Catholic Charities. This Christmas, we invite you to bring this envelope to Mass. While your gifts are recorded at your parish and remain anonymous to us, your support is a visible reflection of your love and generosity in the lives of those we serve.

As we approach the final days of Advent and ready ourselves for the birth of our Savior, I pray the light of the manger will be our source of strength and hope this Christmas Season.

Yours in Christ,

Dan Florin

CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend