Strong parishes are the foundation of a thriving and vibrant Church. In local parishes, we come to know and encounter Christ in the mass and sacraments. The parish is our spiritual home through liturgical seasons, marked by the cycle of Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter, as well as the seasons of our lives, marked by baptisms, first communions, marriages and funerals. The parish is the center of our sacramental life as Catholics.
Each parish experiences unique challenges and opportunities. Each parish, even the most well maintained, has needs. Some require upkeep or renovations to make their facilities more conducive to worship, to provide easier access for the elderly and disabled, or to create the capacity to institute or enhance ministries. Others are eager to create a parish endowment, update technology, hire needed staff, or improve religious education. Too often, parishes lack the funds to implement important initiatives like these.
The Archdiocese of Mobile recognizes our parishes as centers of transformation and crucial to fulfilling the mission of the Church. As a result of this, the Generations of Faith – Endowing Our Future with Hope campaign will raise significant funds, $6,000,000 or 20% of the total goal, to address local parish needs.
Twenty percent (20%) of all funds raised up to a parish’s goal will remain with the parish to address its needs. Once a parish has surpassed their goal, 80% of every dollar raised above the goal will remain with the parish for additional local investment. Recognizing, too, that each parish is in the best position to determine its most urgent priorities, the use of funds will be decided locally, with the participation of parishioners in partnership with a Priest Advisory Committee.