Find out how much God has given you and from it take what you need;
the remainder is needed by others. – St. Augustine
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,When I came across this quote from St. Augustine, it made me pause a moment and reflect on those gifts that God has given to me. God has blessed me greatly with love and joy from family and friends. Another wonderful blessing has been the opportunity to work together with you in serving and leading the Church here in northeastern Wisconsin.
I continue to be amazed by the breadth of ministries and services that reach thousands of families in search of Jesus’ love. A large part of this work is funded by the Bishop’s Appeal. In fact, many of these ministries would not be possible without your support of the Bishop’s Appeal.
Commissioned Ministry is one such program that receives funding from the Bishop’s Appeal. This program helps train deacons and lay leaders to serve in our parishes and schools. Barb Tremel, a business manager at St. Thomas More Parish in Appleton, completed the Commissioned Ministry program.
“I felt the Commissioned Ministry program gave me an opportunity to explore more of the spiritual side of things. I knew I had the numbers background; I knew I had the accounting; I knew I had the payroll and personnel; what I didn’t have was the spiritual, and Commissioned Ministry cemented that for me,” said Barb.
Barb is just one example of someone who has been Called to Serve and is making an impact in our parishes. Please prayerfully consider making a pledge to the 2010 Bishop’s Appeal. Please know whatever you are able to give is greatly appreciated.
Thank you for all your support of the Church. Please remember me in your daily prayers as I remember you in mine. Blessings on you and your family during the upcoming Advent season.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Bishop David L. Ricken
Most Reverend David L. Ricken, DD, JCLBishop of Green Bay
