Because We Are Catholic is Underway!
Every Penny Helps
Remember to Give From the Heart this Year and Share the Light of Christ. Check back here to follow the journey we take this year.
About
How Because We Are Catholic Appeal Affects Your Parish and Your Life
Trust Advisors
In 2013 the Most Reverend John O. Barres established the Annual Appeal as a Charitable Trust and formed a Board of Trust Advisors. The Trust Advisors serves as a critical community champion of the Because We Are Catholic Appeal.
Learn MoreGoals & Allocations
The Because We are Catholic Annual Appeal unites 80 parishes, 28 Catholic Elementary Schools, 7 Catholic High Schools, and 3 Special Learning Centers in our diocese in common effort to share the Catholic faith.
Learn MoreParish Resources
Information for Parishes for the “Because We are Catholic” Annual Appeal.
Learn MoreFAQ
Learn MoreBishop's Message
Dear Friends,
We often talk about the “how” of the Because We Are Catholic Annual Appeal: How does the money that you donate help needy people throughout the five counties of our Diocese? How do your gifts support our Catholic schools, feed the hungry, provide care for older adults, help students at our special learning centers, educate seminarians, and so much more.
This year, I’d like to talk about the “why” behind the Appeal. Why do we have a Because We Are Catholic Annual Appeal? In addition, and perhaps more importantly, why should you join the tens of thousands of parishioners around the Diocese who give so generously?
Why do we do it?
It’s because of our faith. It’s Because We Are Catholic. That’s the theme of this year’s Appeal. It is also a foundational tenet of our Catholic faith.
Through the Because We Are Catholic Annual Appeal, we, as Catholics, are at the front lines of helping those in need. Through the Because We Are Catholic Annual Appeal, we do God’s work, day in and day out, in a vibrant way. Through the Appeal, with God’s blessings and help, we can do great things for our neighbors and for our communities.
I am tremendously proud of our work together and extremely grateful for your support. I ask that you prayerfully consider a gift to this year’s Because We Are Catholic Annual Appeal, and I thank you in advance for your faith, your kindness, and your prayers.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Alfred A. Schlert
Bishop of Allentown
Because We Are Catholic
Please take a moment to watch our Because We Are Catholic Kick Off video to learn more about the program and where the donations are going. Thank you to every generous person who has given to the Because We Are Catholic Appeal. Every penny helps those in need.
Giving Opportunities
You have a wonderful opportunity to continue the legacy of our Diocesan family by making a leadership gift to this year’s appeal.
Six Month Gift
We are asking every parishioner to consider a six-month pledge to the Because We Are Catholic Appeal. Monthly reminders will be mailed from the Diocesan Office to assist you in fulfilling your pledge.
Gift of Securities
Many parishioners prefer making a gift of securities because they will receive the full value of the securities as the gift value and pay no capital gains tax. Please consult your personal tax advisor regarding the special rules of gifts of appreciated property.
Donate Now
All contributions will be allocated solely and exclusively for the ministries as identified in this case statement. Without your support, many of these services would not be possible.
Recurring Gift
Make a larger gift by making smaller payments! Consider making a recurring gift via electronic funds transfer, an automatic credit card transaction, or by setting up your online banking system to make a recurring payment.
Matching Gifts
Many employers sponsor matching gift programs and will match charitable contributions made by their employees. Please contact the Human Resources department at your place of employment for specific information to ensure that your gift will be eligible for a match.
Bequests
You can remember the Because We Are Catholic Appeal in your will. This may provide your estate with a federal and estate tax advantage.
Prayer Request/Tell Your Story
A seminarian would like to offer your intentions as part of his daily Mass. Please share your intentions even if you are not able to support the Appeal.
Please write your request below and return in the enclosed envelope or place in the collection basket at your parish.
Please remember my/our intentions during your daily Mass:
Tell Your Story
How have you been called to serve?
How has your Catholic faith made a difference in your family? With your friends? At your parish? In your workplace? How have you been called to serve?
Please share your story below.