The 2012 Stewardship Appeal supports the work of the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of New York. All funds raised through the annual Appeal are used exclusively to support the ministries described here. These ministries support our priests from pre-Seminary through retirement. They provide critical support for our parishes, schools and neighbors most in need.
In addition, these ministries touch every parishioner in this Archdiocese through services such as Religious Education, Family Life Programs, and the Marriage Tribunal. Please support the good work of the Catholic Church in New York through the 2012 Stewardship Appeal.
1. Who benefits from the Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal?
Every parish and all people within them benefit from the Stewardship Appeal, as well as those who turn to the Archdiocese for charitable and spiritual assistance.
2. What is the goal of the 2012 Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal?
The overall goal for the 2012 Stewardship Appeal is $19 million. However, the needs of the Archdiocese exceed $19 million. It will be to the benefit of the ministries that are supported by the Stewardship Appeal to be as successful as possible.
3. Is the money going towards a good cause?
The money collected from the 2012 Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal will be used for the ministries of the Archdiocese explained in the brochure. The six areas funded are: Support for Parishes, Academic and Spiritual Formation, Pastoral Ministries, Retired Religious, Works of Charity, and Specialized Services.
4. Does my parish benefit from the Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal?
The Stewardship Appeal benefits the entire Archdiocese. Much of the money is made available to support parishes and schools that are in financial difficulty. In addition, many Archdiocesan offices provide valuable professional assistance in areas such as real estate, insurance, and legal services. In 2012, once a parish exceeds its Stewardship Appeal target, they receive 100% of every dollar paid over the goal.
5. Why should I give to the 2012 Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal?
The Archdiocese of New York is an extremely worthwhile organization. It exists not only to care for the spiritual needs of the 2.5 million Catholics who worship in its churches, but also as a great source of social and charitable outreach. While many people support their local parish, it is important to remember how vital the Archdiocese is to the life of all parishes. The programs supported by the Stewardship Appeal are invaluable to all Catholics, as well as others in need who regularly turn to the Archdiocese of New York.
6. What is the difference between a Stewardship and the Cardinal’s Appeal?
A Stewardship Appeal encompasses all that is undertaken in the Cardinal’s Appeal, but takes it one step farther. Additional focus should be placed on every member giving back to the Church as his or her vocation of discipleship. Also, it is important to stress that while financial assistance is necessary, all gifts are not monetary. Parishioners should be encouraged to live out stewardship in their daily lives – in their homes, with their families, in the workplace. Importance should be placed on volunteering our time and talents to support the evangelical mission of Jesus Christ.
7. How can I make my gift to the Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal?
You can make your gift to the Stewardship Appeal in the following ways:
| - Cash | - Direct debit |
| - Credit card | - Matching gifts |
| - Check | - Stock |
| - Website |
8. How much should I give?
Your gift should be determined after prayer for God’s guidance, one of which you can be proud, and one that you know will help the people of the Church of New York.
9. Where should I send my pledge/gift?
Send your check or order money payable to the “2012 Stewardship Appeal” to:
The Stewardship Appeal Office
Archdiocese of New York
1011 First Avenue, Suite 1410
New York, NY 10022
10. Can a donor make a stock gift?
Yes, stock is a convenient way of giving. Many donors pledge to the Stewardship Appeal with gifts of appreciated securities, thereby enjoying additional tax savings. If a donor is considering a transfer of stock, they should call Melissa Ah-Sue by phone, 212-371-1000 Ext. 3263 in the Stewardship Appeal Office for specific instructions.
11. Why is there a great emphasis placed on Commitment Weekend?
Commitment Weekend, also known as ‘in-pew weekend’, is a vital element to the success of the Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal effort. It is the most opportune time for pastors and volunteers to comprehensively ‘market’ the Stewardship Appeal. In-pew weekend is the most convenient time for donors to make their pledge. It invites each and every family to make a gift. If facilitated correctly, this phase can greatly boost your total pledge amount and in some cases actually help you realize your goal. This designated weekend also educates unregistered churchgoers, who have not received the Cardinal’s mailing, about the Stewardship Appeal.
12. Why are parishes asked to solicit some donors “face-to-face?”
Experience has shown that a face-to face solicitation from the Pastor or a respected leader in the parish is the most effective way to secure gifts at a higher level. The personal approach shows the donor that their participation is very important to us and usually offers them an opportunity to discuss the good works of the Archdiocesan Stewardship Appeal.
13. Why encourage pledging instead of a one-time gift?
A pledge allows you to: be kind to your budget, make the most of your generosity, provide timely income to the Archdiocese, and make your fulfillment of a large gift manageable.
14. Can people learn about the Appeal on-line?
We hope we have provided enough information for you to make an informed descision and the importance of the Stewardship Appeal, as well as make an on-line gift. In addition, pastors and volunteers can access a password-protected link to download all Stewardship Appeal materials, by clicking here.
