Together we accomplish so much more than any …diocesehelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ACA-2016-Leader-Guide...ishop’s ircle of Hope 4 Kick-Off Weekend Presentation Guidelines

CAMPAIGN GUIDELINES & REFERENCE MATERIALSKICK-OFF WEEKEND - OCTOBER 8 & 9 • COMMITMENT WEEKEND - OCTOBER 15 & 16

Office of the Bishop • Diocese of Helena

P.O. Box 1729 • Helena, MT 59624-1729

Phone: 406.442.5820 • Fax: 406.442.5191

www.diocesehelena.org

Together we accomplish so much more than any

individual or parish can do alone.

Diocese of Helena – 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal – Campaign Guidelines and Reference Materials 1

Table of Contents

Page Annual Catholic Appeal Campaign Guidelines and Reference Materials

Timeline 2-3 Bishop’s Circle of Hope 4 Kick-Off Weekend Presentation Guidelines 5 Audio Script – Bishop Thomas 6 Commitment Weekend Solicitation Guidelines 7-8 Notes 9 Stewardship Chairperson’s Responsibilities 10

Annual Catholic Appeal Speaker’s Talk 11 Talking Points and Topics 12

Speaker’s Bureau 12 Secretary’s Responsibilities 13 Guidelines for Processing Pledges 14

Follow-up Brings Success

General Guidelines 15 Follow-up Chairperson Duties and Responsibilities 16 Telephone Calling Guidelines 17 Sample Solicitation Conversation 18 Sample Parish Follow-up Letters 19

Annual Catholic Appeal Details and Goals

Share Breakdown of Every Dollar 20-21 Ministries and Services Funding Allocations 2015 22-23 Parish Goals and Progress for ACA 2014 24-25 How the Parish Goals Are Set 26

Bulletin, Altar, My Parish App and Flocknote Announcements ~including Stewardship Prayer 27-30

Artwork 31-32

Timeline

October 1 & 2 First Bulletin Insert for Parish Bulletin – Created unique to each parish!

October 8 & 9 Kickoff Weekend ~ Be sure to use messages on page 27 for My Parish App & Flocknote

Review and implement liturgical guidelines.

Put up posters. Insert second bulletin Insert.

Pastor introduces Annual Catholic Appeal.

Play CD, Video or have Bishop’s letter read before Mass begins.

Pastor introduces the Stewardship/ACA Chairperson or other volunteer who will assist with the appeal.

October 11-14 ACA packets arrive in homes of all registered parishioners.

October 15 & 16 Commitment Weekend ~ See page 27 for My Parish App & Flocknote messages

Review and implement liturgical guidelines.

Display banners outside of church. Put pledge envelopes in pews.

Insert third bulletin insert.

Announce campaign during Mass.

Pastor or chairperson asks for everyone’s participation.

Pastor leads in-pew sign-up by pledging first.

October 17 First parish report sent to ACA office.

October 22 & 23 First Follow-up Weekend

Continue to use prayers from the liturgical guidelines.

Announce in-pew progress in bulletin and during Mass.

Insert fourth bulletin insert.

Invite a youth or young adult to speak.

Ask those who have not yet pledged to do so TODAY.

October 24 Second parish report sent to ACA office.

October 27 *First Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

Oct 29 & 30 Second Follow-up Weekend


Announce progress in bulletin and during Mass.

Insert fifth bulletin insert.


October 31 Third parish report sent to ACA office.

November 3 *Second Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

November 5 & 6 Third Follow-up Weekend



Insert sixth bulletin insert.

Thank those who have given or pledged.



November 7 Fourth parish report sent to ACA office.

November 10 *Third Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

November 12 & 13 Fourth Follow-up Weekend



Insert seventh bulletin insert.



November 14 Parish follow-up effort begins. Contact each family that has not yet pledged through a personal visit, phone call or letter from pastor and/or finance council.

November 14 Fifth parish report sent to ACA office.

November 15 First ACA 2016 Pledge Reminders sent from ACA office.

November 17 *Fourth Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

November 18 Bishop’s first follow-up letter sent.

November 19 & 20 Fifth Follow-up Weekend



Insert eighth (final) bulletin insert.



November 21 Sixth parish report sent to ACA office.

December 1 *Fifth Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

December 5 Parish follow-up effort concludes.

December 8 *Sixth Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

December 15 ACA 2016 Pledge Reminders sent from ACA office.

December 15 *Seventh Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

December 17 & 18 Announce campaign results in bulletin and at Mass.

Thank all who supported the ACA and reiterate that pledges will continue to be accepted.

December 22 NO PROGRESS REPORTS WILL BE SENT TO PARISHES.

January 9 *Eighth Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report for all 2016 gifts (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.


January 16 ACA 2016 Pledge Reminders sent from ACA office.

January 19 Bishop’s second follow-up letter sent.

January 26 *Ninth Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

February 2 *Tenth Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

February 9 *Eleventh Campaign Progress Report and Parish Progress Report (including Direct Appeal) sent to parishes.

*Note: Campaign Progress Reports along with individual Parish progress reports including the direct appeal gifts will be sent to Pastors/Administrators, Parishes, Deacons and ACA Chairs on Thursday of each week from October 27- February 9 except for Dec 22 & 29 and Jan 5 & 19. Following that timeframe a parish may request a report at [email protected] All e-mailed reports will be sent to the address on file with the Diocese of Helena. Changes, updates or inquiries for e-mail addresses should be directed to Karen at [email protected] subject line: email address change needed.

Bishop’s Circle of Hope

The Bishop’s Circle of Hope is a community of benefactors who take a leadership role in the work of the Church through their gifts to the Annual Catholic Appeal. As a member, each person pledges to become partners in a shared vision for the future of the Diocese of Helena as they set an example of good stewardship and reach out with love to people and ministries in need of assistance.

Circle of Faith $10,000 or more Faith requires a strong, unshakeable and sincere belief in something meaningful. Circle of Faith members convey this steadfastness to the Annual Catholic Appeal with gifts of $10,000 or more.

Circle of Mercy $5,000 to $9,999 To be merciful is to show compassion for others, especially the least, the last and the lost in our society. Circle of Mercy members convey this kindness with gifts between $5,000 and $9,999 to the Annual Catholic Appeal.

Circle of Charity $3,500 to $4,999 An act of charity is a true expression of benevolence and is at the heart of humanity. Circle of Charity members provide gifts between $3,500 and $4,999 to the Annual Catholic Appeal.

Circle of Generosity $2,000 to $3,499 Generosity requires an unselfish spirit and reflects a warm sympathetic nature. By contributing gifts ranging between $2,000 and $3,499 to the Annual Catholic Appeal, Circle of Generosity members express their own kindness while recognizing the needs of others.

Circle of Compassion $1,000 to $1,999 To have compassion is to feel empathy for another and to seek ways of alleviating their burden. Members of the Circle of Compassion express this desire to help others with gifts to the Annual Catholic Appeal ranging from $1,000 to $1,999

Circle of Gratitude $500 to $999 Supporting the Annual Catholic Appeal as a means of expressing one’s gratitude for all God has given, is how members of the Circle of Gratitude model good stewardship. Circle of Gratitude gifts to the Annual Catholic Appeal range from $500 to $999.

Circle of Love $1 to $499 A sacrificial gift between $1 and $499 acknowledges the love of God present in a tender heart. Circle of Love members provide gifts to the Annual Catholic Appeal in response to God’s love for all people.

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Kick-off Weekend Presentation Guidelines October 10 & 11

Prior to the gathering hymn and procession: At each Mass, the Pastor/Presider (or Appeal/Stewardship Chairperson) should introduce the appeal.

Explain that gifts are designated for appeal funded ministries and services only.

Suggest that parishioners watch for information in the mail this week. o Materials will arrive which describe the ministries and services of the Diocese and how the ACA

2016 funds will be used. o The Diocese of Helena website will have all appeal materials available for review.

Ask that parishioners prepare to make a commitment. o Each individual should take a few moments to review the materials, discuss the ministries and

services with others in his or her home and pray about how to respond to this call to participate.

o A pledge form will accompany the materials sent to the homes. Please bring that with you to church next week.

o At Mass next weekend, Commitment Weekend, everyone will be asked to make a pledge.

Introduce and play the CD or Video message from Bishop Thomas.

Following the message from Bishop Thomas, there is a period of silence before the gathering hymn begins and the procession enters.

After Homily: At each Mass, the Pastor/Presider should introduce the Appeal/Stewardship Chairperson. The Appeal/Stewardship Chairperson should mention the following:

While financial goals are important, our emphasis continues to be on participation. OUR PARTICIPATION GOAL IS ALWAYS 100%. (See pages 25 & 26 for last year’s participation rate.) Every member or family within our parish can make a gift of gratitude to God according to ability and conscience.

Spend a few minutes talking about the ministries and services of the Diocese and how they affect the local parish and its people.

Ask that parishioners prepare to make a commitment. NOTE: The Stewardship Chairperson may give a brief summary of the theme, parish goal and other basic information while a separate speaker gives a more personal talk about how the ACA affects the parish and each family, or one person may do both.


Audio Script – Bishop Thomas Dear Friends in Christ,

In sacred scripture Paul’s letter to Timothy invites us to build bridges and remain faithful, “Beloved,” he writes,

“remain faithful to what you have learned and believed.”

The Year of Mercy, as declared by Pope Francis, has been enlightening, affirming and challenging. He began

the year with words we strive to make our own. “How much I desire that this year will be steeped in mercy, so

that we can go out to every man and woman, bringing the goodness and tenderness of God. May the balm of

mercy reach everyone, both believers and those far away, as a sign that the kingdom of God is already present

in our midst.”

Throughout the Diocese of Helena and beyond our borders, in Guatemala, through the ministries and services

funded by our Annual Catholic Appeal, God’s mercy is present in the hearts and actions of our people. I would

like to share what two have written.

From Kevin Molm, Catholic Campus minister at Christ the King Parish in Missoula: In Catholic Campus

Ministry, all are welcome. Always. To effectively spread the Gospel, we must welcome into our ministry

those who do not look like, think like, or even believe like we do. Only through an attitude of hospitality

and encounter can we allow the Holy Spirit to work through us to reach those in most need of God’s love,

mercy and grace.

From Sheila McShane, director of Clinica Maxeña at our mission in Guatemala: The blessing of this

mission is the reality that Fr. James Hazelton baptized our present Pastor, Padre René Ixcamparic, over

40 years ago in the parish of Santa Maria Visitación. Father Hazelton was pastor and missionary there.

Prayers for him, for Archbishop Raymond G. Hunthausen and for our new pastor, Padre René.

Steadfast can best describe the dedication of the countless men and women of our Diocese who invest

themselves in passing along the faith to those entrusted to them in their home, parish or community setting.

The ministries and services of the ACA empower us to build bridges that inspire hope and understanding, unity

and peace, faith and justice. Pope Francis has asked us to minister among the poor, the weak, the forgotten

and the disenfranchised, knowing that God’s mercy is entirely unearned, unmerited and inexhaustible.

As your Bishop, I invite you to offer a gift in support of the works of love and mercy made possible by the ACA,

and in so doing continue the practice of theology that connects worship and service, liturgy and compassion,

prayer and justice or, in a Scriptural parlance, “love of God and love of neighbor.” This is what we have learned

and believed.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend George Leo Thomas Bishop of Helena


Commitment Weekend Solicitation Guidelines October 15 & 16

Please prepare the congregation for Commitment Weekend as suggested in the Kick-off Weekend Presentation Guidelines on page 4 of this Leadership Guide.

In-church solicitation is very effective because it allows you to make direct contact with a large percentage of your parishioners, saving you time and effort in your follow-up phase. You may want to consider using this solicitation two weekends in a row for even better coverage before sending the follow-up letter from the pastor.

Prior to the gathering hymn and procession:

The Stewardship Chairperson or someone appointed as speaker should give a personal witness talk about the meaning of stewardship and the importance of giving. You may choose to have a different speaker for each Mass.

See ACA Speaker’s Talk, page 11.

See additional talking points, page 12.

Following the Speaker’s Talk there is a period of silence before the gathering hymn begins and the procession enters.

After the Creed and before the General Intercessions:

The presider begins in the following manner:

In a moment we will pray for the world. Now we take a moment to act in prayerful generosity as we respond to the Word of God through our participation in the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal, remembering our faithfulness to Christ, who calls us to care for others.

Please be seated.

Either the presider or the Appeal/Stewardship Chairperson may lead the following:

If someone other than the presiding priest, the person designated to lead the renewal then comes forward. This should be done from a place other than the pulpit/ambo.

A few days ago you received a mailing from Bishop Thomas that explained the Annual Catholic Appeal and the mission and ministries that are supported by gifts to the ACA. Today I am asking you to make your commitment.

Will everyone please take out the commitment form that you received in the mail? If you didn't bring it with you there are pledge envelopes ... (describe where the envelope can be found.) If you have already completed and sent yours, do not complete another one today.

The presiding priest, deacon/s and ministers of the liturgy all fill out a commitment form or envelope.

Let’s do it together, remembering that no gift is too small. Every gift is a sacrifice. We hope each of you will make a sacrificial contribution according to ability and guided by conscience.

If you’ve never made a gift to the ACA before we applaud your willingness to take a first step.


Keep in mind that you may be holding the materials you received at home. I am going to walk you through using a pledge envelope found here in your pew.

Please be sure to make two selections from the Inclination Survey found on the inside flap of the envelope.

Put in your name, your spouse’s name, address and phone number indicating if it is a cellular or home phone and e-mail address. Please use your full name. Include middle initial, Jr. or Sr. if necessary so that we credit your pledge properly. Take care to print clearly and legibly.

Fill in our parish name. If you are a visitor to our parish from another parish within our diocese, please indicate your home parish next to “Parish Name.”

Please indicate if you are a winter visitor/resident of Montana and in which months you are here.

Sign your name and indicate if your gift is in honor or memory of someone.

49 Priests in our Diocese made a gift to the 2015 ACA. If you wish to match the Priests’ average paid gift, please enter $1,032 as your total.

Select your gift amount from the amounts listed or select the “other” box and write in your appropriate gift amount.

If you would like to make your gift or pledge online please get out your iPhone to scan the QR code or choose the third option and complete your gift online at home.

If you are making a commitment of $300.00, write $300.00 beside Other. If you are paying $60.00 now, write $60.00 beside Now Paying. Then write the Balance To Be Paid of $240.00. However, you need not pay anything now. Reminders will be sent to you if you wish to pay later.

There are three payment options for your gift. You may pay for your entire gift today, extend the payments over ten (10) months or pay in two (2) equal installments. For instance, if your Balance To Be Paid is $240, you can extend that over the next ten months and pay $24.00 each month. Or you can select 2 payments of $120.00 each to be paid in December 2016 and June 2017.

Finally, be sure you have signed your pledge envelope. Put in any contribution you are making today and seal the envelope.

Remember, every gift is gratefully accepted. Thank you for your attention. If the Stewardship Chairperson or designee has led the completion of the envelopes or pledge sheets, he or she should now return to his/her seat. The presider concludes in the following manner: Please place your sacrificial gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal in the offertory basket with your

regular offertory gift following the General Intercessions.

Continue with General Intercessions.

To whomever is leading the pledge sign up: Please take your time. Silence is ok. Your patience will give the Holy Spirit time to work in the hearts of those gathered. Be intentional, be gentle, be informative…Please take your time. Your willingness to go through this slowly shows everyone just how important it is. Inviting gifts to the ACA is worthy of your time and theirs.


Notes: Kick-off Weekend, October 8th & 9th

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Notes:

Commitment Weekend, October 15th & 16th __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Parish Stewardship Chairperson Duties and Responsibilities

**In coordination with the pastor and/or parish administrator, the Stewardship Chairperson is encouraged to first form a Stewardship Committee if one currently doesn’t exist in your parish.

1. Meet with the Parish Pastoral Council and Finance Council about the importance of ACA and ask for their help and support.

2. Work with the pastor and Stewardship Committee to select a speaker or speakers (one for each Mass)

to present a short witness talk on ACA Commitment Weekend, October 15-16 at all Masses. (Parish Stewardship Chairperson may serve as speaker if desired.)

3. Assist the pastor with set-up of CD of Bishop’s talk or Video or read Bishop Thomas’ letter at Mass on

Kick-off Weekend, October 8-9. (See page 6 and 7 of this Leadership Guide.)

4. Assist the pastor in leading the congregation through the in-pew pledge process. (See pages 7 & 8 of the Leadership Guide.)

5. Assist the pastor with distribution of materials in church.

On Kick-off Weekend, be sure large posters, outside banner and parish progress poster are displayed in strategic locations such as church entryway or social center.

On Commitment Weekend: o Place a handful of pledge envelopes and pencils in each pew. o Remind the lector of the timing for the collection. o Alert the ushers if an additional collection just for ACA gifts has been planned.

Organize the collection of pledge envelopes after sign-up.

Place extra brochures and pledge envelopes at church entrances.

Work with ACA 2016 campaign secretary and follow-up chairman for a successful campaign.

6. Meet with pastor, member(s) of Finance Council and other volunteers to plan parish stewardship campaign and prepare timeline of events.

7. With pastor and stewardship committee volunteers, select or prepare campaign materials to use in parish stewardship campaign.

8. Execute parish stewardship campaign using the Annual Catholic Appeal model demonstrated in this Leadership Guide or another model selected by your parish.


ACA Speaker’s Talk

The following is a suggested outline and possible topics for use by the Parish Stewardship Chairperson or selected ACA Speaker(s). It is possible and encouraged to have a different speaker at each Mass so that someone known to that Mass time is a credible witness. In preparation, spend time in prayer and with scripture, especially thinking about and coming to understand the theme. Note the Scripture sites listed below.

1. Greetings, welcome and introduction: Welcome the congregation to the parish liturgy during ACA 2016. Share information about yourself, your family, and how long you have been a member of your parish.

2. Introduce ACA 2016: Mention the theme, “Beloved: remain faithful to all that you have learned and believed” from the second letter to Timothy. If you are the Stewardship/ACA chairperson explain your role. Note that everyone should have received a communication this week explaining more about how ACA 2016 funds will be used. There are extra materials available in the parish for any individuals or families that are not yet registered.

3. Describe the impact of ACA: our gifts of treasure enable our Church to continue its mission. The ministries funded by ACA help our parish respond to the needs around us. We give not so the Church can receive but so that, as the People of God, we can serve others and build the Church. As individuals our impact is small. As a community our impact is great. And with Christ’s example of service, nothing is impossible. Over 300 individuals and families make their first ever gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal each year. New donors are encouraged! Some of the most generous donors are our priests. 49 Priests in our Diocese made a gift to the 2015 ACA. Anyone wishing to match the Priests' average paid gift would need to give $1,032 to the ACA.

4. Talk about the meaning of stewardship in your life: Each one of us is called to share in the Lord’s gifts and to return to God a portion of what we have received. It is in sharing with others that we truly grow in our faith and understanding of charity and love. Describe how this personal choice has made a difference in your life. Make this a witness to your own discipleship. For inspiration, see Acts 4:31-32, (powered by the Holy Spirit); Luke 6:38 (what you give comes back to you); Luke 10:25-37 (Parable of Good Samaritan); Luke 21:1-4, (widow’s mite); Matthew 6:25-33 (birds of the air, lilies of the field); Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents); 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, (spiritual gifts).

5. Ask the congregation to be prepared to make a commitment following the Creed and before the

General Intercessions as a response to God’s word.


Additional Talking Points and Help for ACA Speakers We hope to help people come to a greater understanding of stewardship and discipleship.

You need not apologize for talking about stewardship of treasure. Jesus talked about money more often than any other subject except the Kingdom of God. (He did not say, “Money is the root of all evil.” Rather, he said, “The LOVE of money is the root of all evil.”)

The ACA campaign is designed not to serve the Church, but so that the Church can serve.

Keep in mind that needs divide, vision unites. Focus on the shared vision exemplified in the theme of the campaign. Each of us is a disciple on a journey.

Our need as disciples to give is greater than the need of the Church to receive.

Success is measured more by the number of people who share in the vision, and the number of people ministered to, less by the dollars raised. Emphasize participation—each individual has an opportunity to be part of The People of God.

Give examples that you are familiar with that demonstrate the good works accomplished on behalf of the Church of Helena through the support of the Annual Catholic Appeal. (i.e. Guatemala Mission, Aid to the Needy, Priests’ Assistance, Legendary Lodge, Pastoral Outreach, etc.)

Speakers’ Bureau

A speaker from the Chancery will not be available. It is most beneficial for a locally known parishioner to share their personal experience of the Annual Catholic Appeal. You may even want to consider a different person at each Mass, so that they are known, if you have several Masses. If you need assistance to identify such an individual in your parish please contact Glenda at [email protected]

If you have youth in your parish that currently serve on the CYC Board it is important for you to know that they have been invited and coached to tell of their experience in youth ministry. Check with your youth minister to see who this might include.


ACA 2016 Parish Secretary Duties and Responsibilities

PLEASE NOTE: Please carefully read all instructions for handling returned pledge envelopes on page 14. Do not remove checks from envelopes. Do not cut envelopes or tear off the backs. This makes handling them more difficult.

1. Alert the ushers and lectors as to the timing of the ACA commitment in your parish.

2. Have the bulletin announcements printed in the Sunday bulletins. They begin on October 1/2 and end on November 19/20. The back has been left empty so that you may use it. Additional small bulletin announcements are included in this Leadership Guide and are also available on the diocesan website. www.diocesehelena.org Please use the eight large bulletin inserts and at least ten announcements and/or small bulletin inserts during the campaign phase from October through December.

3. Work with your pastor to organize altar announcements for use at Mass.

4. Work with your pastor to select general intercessions to be used at Mass. Suggestions are included with the Liturgical Notes.

5. Handle pledge envelopes and pledge sheets by marking off donors from the parish list and recording the gift and then mail the envelopes to the ACA office. (See detailed instructions on next page.)

6. If there is a change of name or address, please indicate clearly on the printed contact information so corrections can be made to the ACA database.

7. Prepare weekly reports to send with commitment envelopes to the ACA office.

8. Each week, show progress on parish progress poster.

9. Assist ACA 2016 Campaign Chairperson and Follow-up Chairperson to prepare follow-up reports. Call us whenever you have a question. We are happy to help. 1-800-584-8914. Glenda or Julie.

http://www.diocesehelena.org/


Guidelines for Processing Returned Pledge Envelopes and Money

Please use the following procedure when the envelopes are returned after sign-up.

1. Gather your parish list of donors’ names and addresses.

2. Place the envelopes in alphabetical order.

3. Verify that the name and address are correct and then place a red check mark to the left of the contact information on the envelope. If the address is different from the one found in the contact information report please write: NCOA Note Change of Address.

4. For your records, indicate the amount of each pledge on your parish list.

5. When the envelope is a pledge only: Record on your parish list, complete the report and forward it to the ACA 2016 campaign office.

6. When the envelope contains a contribution CHECK: Do not remove the check from the envelope. Record the amount on your parish list.

7. When the envelope contains CASH: Put all envelopes containing cash together. Mark on the envelope the amount of cash taken out. Deposit the cash in the parish account and write a parish check for the total cash receipts. Make sure the parish check and envelopes from which the cash was taken are clipped together. Please do not send cash in the mail.

8. Be sure that you’ve updated your parish list. If you wish to receive and update an electronic version of your parish list please contact Stewardship Services @ [email protected]

9. Complete your parish report in the appropriate color for the weeks 1-6.

10. Complete the return address portion of the label on your return envelope. Put all pledge envelopes and your report into the return envelope and mail.

Note: DO NOT cut envelopes or tear off flaps or backs. Constituents sometimes write information there.

Guidelines for Recording Direct Appeal Donors

Some donors may choose to mail their pledge envelope directly to the Diocese of Helena. You will receive an electronic report of these “direct appeal” donors along with in pew gifts each Thursday beginning October 27th.

1. Print and review the report from the Diocese.

2. Retain the report for your records.

3. Record the donor’s gift on your parish list.


Follow-up Means Success!

General Guidelines for Successful Follow-up Follow-up is essential to the success of the Annual Catholic Appeal. It is intended to reach those in your parish who have not yet turned in a pledge envelope. Perhaps the parishioner has not yet made a decision or perhaps he or she was absent on Commitment Weekend, October 15 & 16.

During the Masses on the two Sundays following Commitment Weekend, the Pastor or Chairperson should repeat the request to parishioners who have not yet made a decision and ask them to do so now. By repeating this request on these two Sundays, many who were absent on Commitment Weekend will be reached and those who have not yet made a decision will be encouraged to do so.

After the Second Follow-up Weekend, the Pastor and Follow-up Chairperson should choose one of the three following methods to adequately reach every parishioner and appropriately conclude the appeal. By using one of these methods, a parish will have reached most of the parishioners in the parish, inviting them to make a pledge or a contribution.

Follow-up Method #1

A pledge envelope and a letter from the Pastor/Chairperson are mailed to each person who did not turn in an envelope. Please contact the ACA office for a report of donors who have not yet made a gift. We will send you a report or a set of mailing labels. You may choose whichever is most convenient and timely for you. Sample follow-up letters can be found in this Leadership Guide.

Follow-up Method #2

A member of the finance council or follow-up committee makes a personal telephone call to each parishioner who has not yet made a decision. The volunteer should record the results of the phone call and give it to the Campaign Secretary. A sample telephone conversation script can be found on page 14 of this Leadership Guide.

Follow-up Method #3 A personal visit is paid to non-donors by teams of two volunteers from the follow-up committee. A preliminary phone call to make an appointment is recommended. Blank pledge envelopes should be taken for people to complete. The telephone solicitation sample may be helpful for the personal follow-up.


Follow-up Chairperson Duties and Responsibilities

1. Organize a follow-up committee. As a committee, pray as you begin your work, asking the Holy Spirit to fill you with the inspiration, strength and love to touch the lives of those you are contacting.

2. With pastor and committee, select a method of follow-up. Finalize materials to be used. The samples included in this Leadership Guide are for your guidance. Feel free to customize them to suit the needs of your parish.

3. Work with committee to contact parishioners who have not pledged. Ask everyone to respond. If someone cannot give, ask him or her to indicate on the envelope that they are unable to give. Be sure this information is sent to the ACA office so they do not receive follow-up from the ACA office in January. As an alternative gift, ask them to keep ACA 2016 in prayer.

4. Begin to conduct your parish follow-up no later than the week of November 14. You will need to request labels or a report of all your registered parishioners who have not responded from the ACA office. Progress reports with the names of parishioners mailing their pledges directly to the ACA office will be e-mailed to you each Thursday beginning on October 27.

5. The Bishop’s 2nd follow-up letter will be mailed on or about January 19th.

6. Again, the most effective follow-up is one that comes from the parish. Please make this a priority and do a parish follow-up no later than the week of December 5.

7. Please call the ACA office, 1-800-584-8914 or 442-5820 if you have questions, concerns or problems.


Telephone Follow-up Calling Guidelines

(Modify for use with personal visits.)

Each caller should have a list of 10-20 names and phone numbers of parishioners who have not yet contributed or made a decision on the Annual Catholic Appeal.

1. Review the sample conversation format on the following page.

2. Call each one of your prospects. Be positive. Talk about what has been achieved. Stress that it

is most important that every person do whatever he or she can.

3. Report your findings on the list by their name. Will they bring their pledge to Mass on Sunday?

Did they misplace their pledge and need an envelope sent to them? It is important that they

complete the pledge envelope so that we have their signature.

4. When you complete calls to your prospects, note those who did not answer and call back.

5. Turn in data to the parish office secretary so that she may watch for pledge envelopes.


Sample Solicitation Conversation For Phone and Personal Visits

Request the person being called: “May I speak with Mr(s.) __________________________?”

Introduce yourself:

“Hello, this is ________________ of _____________________ (name of parish).”

Explain why you are calling:

“I'm with a group of parishioners tonight. We are calling households in (name of parish) inviting each household and individual to make a contribution to the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal. Have you received information about this appeal? Do you have any questions about any of the ministries funded through ACA?”

“As you may know, the Diocese is seeking contributors to support the essential ministries and services of the Church, the Diocese and our parishes.”

“We have a Diocesan goal of $2,000,000 and want 100% participation. So far, ____% of our parishioners have pledged. Would you consider a gift or a pledge to these important and essential ministries and services for our parish and Diocese?”

If there is a pause or hesitation, refer to 1 and 2 below. 1. Refer to the ministries and services offered through ACA, especially those important to you or your parish:

Aid to the Needy Pastoral outreach, renewal ministries such as Journey Retirement for priests of the Diocese Campus Ministry, Catholic Social Services, lay ministry, religious education, Legendary Lodge Seminarians, continuing education for priests Funding of these ministries and services is dependent on the response of every Catholic in the Diocese through

Christian stewardship.

2. Refer to suggested pledge plans: Any gift, no matter what size, will be appreciated. Everyone has something to offer. All contributions are tax-deductible. Gifts and pledges may be made by credit card or EFT at www.diocesehelena.org

If needed pledge reminders will be sent on a monthly basis.

Indicate response on the list by their name. Verify address:

“Are you still living at: ___________________?” “May I send you a pledge envelope?”

Indicate on the list by their name whether or not they need another pledge envelope sent.

Thank You: “On behalf of the Diocese of Helena and (name of parish), I thank you for your financial support.”



Sample Parish Follow-up Letters

Sample #1

Dear Parishioner: This year, our goal is that 100% of us will participate in the Annual Catholic Appeal. So far, #________ pledges have been made, which is ________% of our parish families. We have received $_______ in pledges. These gifts are gifts that keep on giving through the many ministries and services funded through the Annual Catholic Appeal. Each year, our aim is to offer all members of our parish an opportunity to participate. We always hope that every member would make a gift of equal sacrifice. We write to ask that you become a contributing member of this appeal. It is only with the combined effort of 57 parishes and 38 missions throughout the diocese that services can be provided that no single parish could afford on its own. I have enclosed a gift envelope and I ask that you complete it in a spirit of generosity and Christian stewardship. No gift is too small when given from the heart. On behalf of all who will benefit from your gift, I thank you. Sincerely yours in the Lord, (Pastor/Administrator)

Sample #2 Dear Parishioner,

In the past few weeks, we have invited the members of our parish family to support the essential works funded through the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016. Through ACA gifts, ministries and services that directly benefit so many Catholic families are funded.

As true stewards, we are called to share our time, our talent and our treasure as we live out Christ’s mission of service. With our gifts, we extend our hands to join thousands of Catholics throughout the Diocese to help those in need.

Won’t you please fill in the enclosed pledge envelope today and return it to the parish? While we encourage you to consider a pledge over ten months, we will be grateful for whatever gift, in whatever size, you can share. You may visit www.diocesehelena.org to make your pledge and payments by credit card or EFT.

May our Lord reward your generosity with His bountiful goodness.

Gratefully in Christ,

(Pastor/Administrator)



Ministries and Services ~ Details and Goals ACA 2016 ALLOCATIONS

OF EVERY DOLLAR YOU GIVE

TO THE ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL . . .

37 cents Demonstrates that we are a family of God as we provide for the medical care, education, training, and retirement of our priests. Nurturing vocations includes permanent diaconate formation, priests’ retirement and continuing formation, seminarian education and vocation awareness promotion.

20 cents Encourages enriching faith communities through retreat opportunities, renewal and small group ministries, liturgies and family enrichment as we reach out to each other and work to evangelize ourselves and make disciples. Ministries include Bishop’s Office and Pastoral Outreach including Native American & Hispanic Outreach Ministry, campus ministry on campuses in Bozeman, Butte, Dillon, Helena and Missoula, Catholic Missions in the Holy Land, Diocesan Liturgical Commission, Diocesan Pastoral Ministry Support and Planning and Vatican apostolic ministries.

11 cents Fosters the Catholic tradition of building the culture of life & family and helps meet the needs of people in the Diocese of Helena working in the area of peace and justice. Services include Catholic Social Services of Montana including Adoption Services, Rachael’s Hope (post abortion help), Youth Mentoring and Supportive Aid to Birthmothers, Montana Catholic Conference and the Superintendent of Catholic Schools' Office.

10 cents Provides for those most in need and expresses personally our dedication to Christ through loving our neighbors. This tithe funds De La Salle Blackfeet Middle School tuition, our Guatemala Mission and Priest and Parish Emergency Assistance including Aid to the Needy.

8 cents Gives us the opportunity to make disciples by sharing our Catholic heritage, values and traditions with our youth, young adults and adults of our diocese through ministries responsible for forming our faith. This includes Catholic University in Washington, D.C., lay ministry formation, Legendary Lodge, Journey, Youth, and Adult Catholic Formation.

7 cents Promotes the availability of Diocesan Communications including the diocesan websites at www.diocesehelena.org and www.dohyouth.org, radio programming and more,



Human Resource Services and Protecting God’s Children. Assisting our parishes and missions also includes telecommunications and technology support.

1 cents Preserves our Catholic heritage as a sign of our unity and solidarity as the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Helena. Honoring the past includes Catholic cemetery perpetual care, and historical preservation of St. Ignatius Mission, St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville and St. Helena Cathedral. Serving the future provides for expenses incurred by the Delegate for Religious.

6 cents Covers the Campaign Expenses of the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal effort including administration, processing, materials and credit card fees thereby ensuring our future.


Ministries and Services Funding Allocations ACA 2016

Ministry or Service APPROVED

ALLOCATION

Permanent Diaconate 7,500

Priests’ Retirement Fund and Continuing Formation 367,500

Seminarian Education 350,000 Vocation Awareness Promotion 5,000

Sub-total nurturing vocations 730,000

Bishop’s Office and Pastoral Outreach 278,000

Native American/Hispanic Outreach Ministry Campus Ministry 85,000*

Bozeman, Butte, Dillon, Helena and Missoula Catholic Missions in the Holy Land 1,750

Diocesan Liturgical Commission 5,000

Diocesan Pastoral Ministry Support and Planning 25,000

Vatican Apostolic Ministries 9,250*

Sub-total enriching faith communities 404,000

Catholic Social Services of Montana 59,000*

Adoption Services, Rachael’s Hope, Youth Mentoring, Supportive Aid to Birthmothers

Montana Catholic Conference 75,000*

Superintendent of Catholic Schools' Office 78,000*

Sub-total building the culture of life & families 212,000

De La Salle Blackfeet School - Browning 25,000*

Guatemala Mission 120,000

Priest and Parish Emergency Assistance 59,000

Sub-total loving our neighbors 204,000


Catholic University, Washington D.C. 3,000

Journey 5,000

Lay Ministry Formation 6,000

Legendary Lodge 66,000

Youth, Young Adult and Adult Catholic Formation 72,000

Including University of Dayton Ministry Certification

Sub-total forming our faith 152,000

Diocesan Communications and Technology 67,000

Human Resource Services 50,000

Protecting God’s Children 30,000

Sub-total assisting our parishes and missions 147,000

Catholic Cemeteries 11,500

Delegate for Religious 1,000

Historical Preservation 13,500

St. Helena Cathedral, St. Ignatius Mission, St. Mary Mission

Sub-total honoring the past and serving the future 26,000

Campaign Expenses - Administration, Processing, Materials and Credit Card Fees 125,000*

Sub-total ensuring our future 125,000

TOTAL 2016 ALLOCATIONS 2,000,000

*Denotes a Ministry or Service funded at 100% of its

allocation independent of the ACA reaching the $2M Goal.


2015 Annual Catholic Appeal Parish Goals and Progress ACA 2015 ACA 2015 ACA 2015

Goal Paid (8/9/16) % Participation

Parish Name $2,000,000 $1,759,781 37%

109 Holy Rosary, Bozeman $85,000 $75,472 40.72% 132 St. Joseph, Harlowton $8,500 *$9,663 36.51% 150 Holy Family, Three Forks $12,400 *$19,893 35.34% 155 St. Bartholomew, White Sulphur Springs $7,300 $3,555 45.45% 158 Resurrection, Bozeman $60,600 $58,050 57.56% 162 Big Sky Mission, Big Sky $10,200 *$10,838 65.63% 163 Our Lady of the Pines, West Yellowstone $10,100 $2,470 80.00% 165 St. John Vianney, Belgrade $34,200 *$62,067 35.63% Bozeman Deanery Total $228,300 $242,007 44%

203 St. Theodore, Avon $3,500 *$5,360 55.56% 204 Anaconda Catholic Community $54,200 $27,101 22.44% 211 Butte Catholic Community North $56,600 $35,883 33.64% 213 St. Ann, Butte $71,800 $62,081 40.94% 214 St. John, Butte $30,100 $15,287 36.90% 219 Holy Spirit, Butte $33,400 $22,221 30.82% 223 Immaculate Conception, Deer Lodge $37,200 $26,620 50.72% 224 St. Rose of Lima, Dillon $27,000 *$27,558 46.79% 236 Madison County Catholic Community $16,200 $9,807 55.81% 254 St. Teresa of Avila, Whitehall $16,700 $11,980 40.17% Butte Deanery Total $346,700 $243,898 36%

310 Little Flower, Browning $15,200 *$16,586 24.49% 319 St. Joseph, Choteau $15,700 *$15,770 48.39% 321 St. Michael, Conrad $21,700 $18,408 37.18% 322 St. Margaret, Cut Bank $15,800 $14,812 53.95% 326 St. William, Dutton $8,600 $6,040 42.86% 329 St. John the Evangelist, Fairfield $13,200 *$14,361 43.02% 333 St. Anne, Heart Butte $1,100 *$1,150 150.00% 346 St. William, Shelby $17,200 $13,250 41.96% 348 St. Thomas Aquinas, Sunburst $5,200 $3,470 34.88% 352 St. Francis, Valier $9,000 *$14,808 44.87% Conrad Deanery Total $122,700 $118,655 37%

*Indicates paid over goal. Congratulations!

Goals for the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal have been calculated using the three year average of each parish’s offertory, July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2015 and reported to you in May of 2016.

Thank you for your timely Financial Statements!

Continued →


2015 Annual Catholic Appeal Parish Goals and Progress

ACA 2015 ACA 2015 ACA 2015

Goal Paid (8/9/2016) % Participation

Parish Name $2,000,000 $1,759,781 37%

401 St. Helena Cathedral, Helena $179,800 *$202,635 29.33% 402 St. Mary, Helena $85,400 $80,535 37.41% 408 St. Catherine, Boulder $9,200 $4,730 15.12% 427 SS. Cyril & Methodius, East Helena $71,200 *$79,445 38.96% 434 St. Thomas the Apostle, Helmville $7,100 *$14,365 42.86% 451 Holy Cross, Townsend $20,900 $13,008 61.22% 460 Our Lady of the Valley, Helena $39,800 *$42,003 37.21% 470 St. Jude the Apostle, Lincoln $3,200 *$6,910 64.00% Helena Deanery Total $416,600 $443,631 35%

503 Our Lady of Swan Valley, Condon $3,400 $1,625 27.78% 506 Saint John Paul II, Bigfork $67,600 $31,954 33.67% 520 St. Richard, Columbia Falls $41,900 $29,620 39.10% 528 Our Lady of Mercy, Eureka $16,900 $15,331 50.83% 535 St. Matthew, Kalispell $130,000 $107,847 41.07% 536 Risen Christ, Kalispell $30,200 *$36,066 47.81% 537 St. Joseph, Libby $24,700 $20,162 41.60% 542 St. James, Plains $14,500 $5,802 30.95% 543 Immaculate Conception, Polson $32,800 $29,727 27.17% 544 Sacred Heart, Ronan $14,400 $13,590 50.49% 549 St. William, Thompson Falls $13,700 $12,378 43.12% 553 St. Charles Borromeo, Whitefish $53,000 $30,988 43.87% Kalispell Deanery Total $443,100 $335,089 40%

605 Living Water, Seeley Lake $7,000 *$16,560 69.44% 607 St. Ann, Bonner $11,400 *$12,317 42.27% 625 Flint Creek Catholic Community $6,600 *$10,365 44.78% 630 St. John the Baptist, Frenchtown $25,600 $12,609 44.68% 631 St. Francis of Assisi, Hamilton $53,400 *$56,995 41.51% 638 Christ the King, Missoula $69,400 $49,523 25.82% 639 St. Anthony, Missoula $62,800 $46,741 42.95% 640 St. Francis Xavier, Missoula $97,000 $77,275 27.94% 645 St. Ignatius Mission $22,800 $13,101 20.60% 647 St. Mary, Stevensville $36,200 $30,263 43.88% 661 Blessed Trinity, Missoula $40,100 *$40,247 45.04% 669 Spirit of Christ, Lolo $10,300 *$10,505 49.23% Missoula Deanery Total $442,600 $376,502 35%

GRAND TOTALS PARISHES $2,000,000 $1,759,781 37%


How the Parish Goals Are Set Each year, the Diocesan Finance Council and other consultants advise the Bishop on a recommended Annual Catholic Appeal (ACA) (formerly Diocesan Offertory Program) overall goal. Factors in deciding the new goal include ministry needs, parish growth, economic conditions, inflation and success in reaching the last ACA goal. Once the overall goal is established, individual parish goals are calculated. In 2016 a recommendation to keep the campaign goal at $2,000,000 was approved. Recalculation of individual parish goals based on the three year average of each parish’s offertory was completed in May and the 2016 goals were mailed to parishes at that time.


Annual Catholic Appeal 2016

Bulletin and Altar Announcements (My Parish App and Flocknote messages, too!)

Below and on the following pages are a variety of suggested announcements for use in your bulletin or as verbal announcements during Mass. Use the announcements that will most appeal to your parishioners or write bulletin announcements that you feel are more suitable for your parish. Bulletin announcements with the logo are available on the DOH website. Please use as many announcements as you can during the course of the campaign. The artwork is available on our website: www.diocesehelena.org

Building Bridges, Remaining Faithful

The Annual Catholic Appeal will be held in all parishes of the Diocese on October 8 and 9 and October 15 and 16. The Annual Catholic Appeal allows us to express our faith and love through our stewardship of treasure. The participation of all our parishioners is essential in order for our Diocese to continue the work of building the Church.

Please Support the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016.

CONSIDER AN ACT OF STEWARDSHIP

The Annual Catholic Appeal 2016 Commitment Weekend is October 15 and 16. Please prayerfully consider what you, as an individual or a family, can pledge to support the works of our Diocese and our parish. A pledge to the Annual Catholic Appeal is an act of stewardship that demonstrates our willingness to let God help us build bridges and remain faithful.

Beloved: remain faithful to what you have learned and believed.

We are not alone in our efforts to remain faithful. Now is the time to embrace and support our Diocesan church for, in the words of Pope Francis, “May the balm of mercy reach everyone, both believers and those far away, as a sign that the kingdom of God is already present in our midst.”

Our Parish Goal is to have all families participate in the Annual Catholic Appeal this year.

Our financial goal is $ ___________

Our Catholic faith remains strong and vibrant because of your generosity to your local parish, the Diocese, and the Universal Church.

Please Support the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016


Annual Catholic Appeal

KICK-OFF WEEKEND – October 8 and 9

This weekend the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016 begins in our parish and throughout the Diocese of Helena. Please unite with all Catholics in the Diocese to share your blessings and bring joy to the people

of God. Please support the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016.

Building Bridges Remaining Faithful

For use throughout the campaign:

SUPPORT CATHOLIC FORMATION SERVICES Your gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016 assists the Diocesan Office of Religious Education in the formation and training of parish and school catechetical leaders. ACA 2016 also promotes the availability of Journey and helps provide for the development of solid educational programming and support services, plus adult enrichment opportunities.

Let God accompany us as we remain faithful.

SUPPORT CATHOLIC COMMUNICATION

Through the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016, the Diocese of Helena will continue to spread the Good News of our faith. The diocesan websites www.diocesehelena.org, www.dohyouth.org, www.legendarylodge.com, and national Catholic radio programming extend our ability to communicate, both within and beyond our diocese. Won’t you help in this effort to spread the Good News with a generous contribution?

Let God inspire us as we build bridges of hope.

SUPPORT THOSE IN MOST NEED Severe poverty makes it difficult for the people of Guatemala to meet basic nutritional and clean water needs, and limits access to education and medical care. Assistance from the Mission of the Diocese of Helena at Santo Tomas la Unión over the past 50 years has dramatically improved the lives of the people. Gifts to the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal will help provide for the educational and health care needs of the indigenous people living in more than 50 communities in Guatemala’s Boca Costa region. La Asunción School, now under the direction of the local Diocese, continues to rely on our assistance to provide quality education; and our resident nurse oversees the Clinica Maxeña. We are grateful for your ongoing financial support.

Let us advance the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ,

building bridges remaining faithful.


http://www.dohyouth.org/

http://www.legendarylodge.com/


YOUR GIFT BENEFITS THOSE WHO SERVE

Your gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal 2016 supports programs that help train the men and women whose service complements the work of our priests, deacons and sisters. Please be generous.

Let us ensure a vibrant Church, building bridges of understanding.

Seminarians Serve Among Us

Our prayers and generous contributions to the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal will help us ensure priests for the future of our diocese. The Annual Catholic Appeal 2016 helps provide appropriate theological education and formation for our seminarians and continuing education opportunities for our priests.

Let us nurture vocations, building bridges of unity and peace.

OUR RETIRED PRIESTS HAVE SERVED FOR A LIFETIME

Your generous gift to the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal assists in providing our senior priests with a secure retirement, including adequate health insurance, prescriptions, dental and vision care. Additionally, our contributions help assure that all the priests who serve us today will be appropriately cared for as they move into their senior status years (retirement). Please support the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal.

Let us show our gratitude, remaining faithful to what we have learned and believed.

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES:

A Diocesan Program That Builds a Culture of Life and Family

Funded in part by the Annual Catholic Appeal, Catholic Social Services provides confidential counseling throughout our state for expectant parents who need assistance to become new parents to their baby. Additional services include adoption placement, post-adoption support, Rachael’s Hope (post abortion help), Youth Mentoring and supportive aid to birthmothers. Please help provide for these critical services.

Let us share what we have in love and mercy.

ASSISTING OUR PARISHES AND MISSIONS

The 2016 ACA provides Human Resource Services and direction for Protecting God's Children. Telecommunications and technology support benefits our 57 parishes and 38 missions.

ANTICIPATING A BRIGHT AND FAITH FILLED FUTURE FOR OUR CHURCH


For use on weekend of January 14 and 15:

High Participation Brings Success Through the Annual Catholic Appeal, Catholics of the Diocese of Helena pool their financial resources and together help the men, women, children and families of our communities, our diocese and our world. This week, many of you who have not yet made a gift to ACA 2016 will receive a letter from Bishop Thomas asking for your participation. Please help in this important work of our Church. May God bless you for your generosity.

Support ACA 2016

Congratulations! Over _______ families and individuals are supporting ACA 2016, responding to God’s ability to inspire us to be generous in our giving. Together we've raised over $ ______________ for the many important ministries and services supported through the Annual Catholic Appeal.

Celebrating the works of love and mercy made possible by our gifts.

INSERT 15

a Stewardship Prayer

Gracious God,

You sent your Son to proclaim the Good News,

inspire us in faith and show us the way to be good stewards of your mercy.

Give us the courage to magnify your presence in word and deed,

help us build bridges and remain faithful to all that we have learned and believed.

And through your Spirit teach us to live, no longer for ourselves,

but in Christ Jesus who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

one God forever and ever.

Amen


INSERT 15

a Stewardship Prayera Stewardship Prayera Stewardship Prayera Stewardship Prayera Stewardship Prayera Stewardship PrayerGracious God,Gracious God,

You sent your Son to proclaim the Good News,You sent your Son to proclaim the Good News,

inspire us in faith and show us the way to be good stewards of your mercy.inspire us in faith and show us the way to be good stewards of your mercy.inspire us in faith and show us the way to be good stewards of your mercy.

Give us the courage to magnify your presence in word and deed,Give us the courage to magnify your presence in word and deed,

help us build bridges and remain faithful to all that we have learned and believed.help us build bridges and remain faithful to all that we have learned and believed.help us build bridges and remain faithful to all that we have learned and believed.

And through your Spirit teach us to live, no longer for ourselves,And through your Spirit teach us to live, no longer for ourselves,

but in Christ Jesus who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,but in Christ Jesus who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,but in Christ Jesus who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,


Amen


Gracious God,

You sent your Son to proclaim the Good News,

inspire us in faith and show us the way to be good stewards of your mercy.

Give us the courage to magnify your presence in word and deed,

help us build bridges and remain faithful to all that we have learned and believed.

And through your Spirit teach us to live, no longer for ourselves,

but in Christ Jesus who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,


Amen

whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.

~ 1 Cor 10:31

Let us continue the practice of theology

that connects worship and service, liturgy

and compassion, prayer and justice, or in

a Scriptural parlance, “love of God and

love of neighbor.” This is what we have learned

and believed.

- Bishop Thomas

Renew or begin your membership in the

Bishop’s Circle of Hope. Join with others in our Diocese as we build

bridges and remain faithful to all that we have learned and believed.

WE DID IT! Thank You

for your generosity to ACA in 2016!

A Christian steward is one who receives God’s gifts

gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a responsible

and accountable manner, shares them in justice

and love with others and returns them

with increase to the lord.

~ Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response

We can go out to every man and woman, bringing the goodness and tenderness of God.

May the balm of mercy reach everyone, both believers and those far away, as a sign that the kingdom of God

is already present in our midst.”

- Pope Francis

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For everything is from You

and we only give You that which

we have received from You.

- 1 Chronicles 29:14

a Tradition of Giving

No gift is too small

The ministries and

services of the ACA

empower us to

build bridges that

inspire hope and

understanding, unity

and peace, and, faith

and justice.

- Bishop Thomas

We are at the final phase of our

ACA Campaign and we have not yet

reached our goal. Please help make our parish

an

“Over Goal” parish!

Our goal is $_______________________ and we

have pledged $___________________________

so far from _____ parishioners.

thank you foryour support!

Beloved: remain faithful to what you have learned

and believed.- 2 Timothy 3:14

37%Vocations & Priests’ Retirement

HOW YOUR ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL 2016

GIFT WILL BE ALLOCATED

Please consider a gift to the

6%Campaign Expenses

7%Parish & Mission Assistance

10%Diocesan Tithing*

11%Social Outreach

20%Bishop’s Office & Pastoral Outreach

1%Historical Preservation

& Future Consultation

8%Catholic Faith Formation

CAMPAIGN GUIDELINES & REFERENCE MATERIALSKICK-OFF WEEKEND - OCTOBER 8 & 9 • COMMITMENT WEEKEND - OCTOBER 15 & 16

Office of the Bishop • Diocese of Helena

P.O. Box 1729 • Helena, MT 59624-1729

Phone: 406.442.5820 • Fax: 406.442.5191

www.diocesehelena.org

Together we accomplish so much more than any

individual or parish can do alone.

Documents

Together we accomplish so much more than any …diocesehelena.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ACA-2016-Leader-Guide...ishop’s ircle of Hope 4 Kick-Off Weekend Presentation Guidelines