Bishop's Appeal maintains increase

In its second report on the 2003 campaign, the Albany diocesan Bishop's Appeal has announced that Catholics have held firm in their financial support of the Diocese.

Donors have given approximately one percent more than they did last year at a similar point in time. The total as of June 12 is $5,816,826.

That amount is "the highest June report in the 49-year history of the campaign," said John Manning, director of the diocesan Stewardship Office, which oversees the Bishop's Appeal.

The May 15 issue of The Evangelist reported that early donations had shown the same increase.

The Appeal, which began after Easter and concludes in a few weeks, funds Catholic schools, charities, assistance to the elderly, religious training for clergy and laity, and a host of other diocesan programs and services.

"As I have said before," Mr. Manning continued, "Catholics know the Appeal is about continuing the mission, ministry and message of Jesus. They want to be part of that and have come through."

There had been concern that donations would fall due to several factors, including the economy, the unemployment rate and reaction to the abuse scandal.

"Catholics have considered those factors against the needs of the poor, elderly, children and others, and come down on their side," Mr. Manning said.

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