Crozier Dinner perpetuates good stewardship

By Mary Moore
The Catholic Sun

SCOTTSDALE — More than 800 people gathered at the Phoenician Resort for the 18th annual Crozier Dinner sponsored by the Catholic Community Foundation, a non-profit, independent charitable foundation that supports the religious, educational and charitable objectives of the Diocese of Phoenix.

Those who attended this year’s annual fundraiser enjoyed fine food and entertainment by internationally renowned guitarist Jose Feliciano, as well as a look at some of the foundation’s efforts within the Catholic community of Phoenix in the past year.

“Tonight’s event, as elegant and entertaining as it might be, is nothing more than a tribute to the wonderful and important work of the foundation,” said the 2006 Crozier Dinner Chairman Colleen Gaia, who specifically addressed the importance of providing Catholic education in a world which fosters a current of moral relativism.

Gaia said Catholic schools remain a beacon of standards and ideals to society.

“Our Catholic education has taught us there is a right and a wrong. It has taught us the importance of compassion, charity and concern for our neighbor. It has taught us a basic morality that is often lacking in today’s world. It makes the world a slightly better place each day and even its harshest critics can’t deny that,” she said.

Because of one-time and perpetual gift contributions made through the Catholic Community Foundation, hundreds of children and young adults in the Phoenix Diocese received a Catholic education when their circumstances would not otherwise have allowed.

Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted reflected upon the role of the bishop’s crosier, or walking staff. As a symbol of pastoral care and love, the crosier, which looks like a shepherd’s staff, recalls God’s love for all those in his care.

“Love is at the very center of our identity as followers of Christ,” the bishop said. “The Catholic Community Foundation helps the Church to carry on the mission of love here in the Diocese of Phoenix. It helps us individually and as a diocese to be good stewards of God’s gifts. If we want to leave a legacy, if we want something to endure, then we must do it in the love of God.”

John Reyno, chairman of the board, also addressed those gathered with gratitude for their support.

“Your presence here gives hope that our mission to carry on the work of Christ, to foster philanthropy and stewardship will continue to grow well beyond our lifetime and that of our children,” he said.

Founded in 1983, the Catholic Community Foundation provides a source through which donors can leave gifts to benefit their charitable objectives and sustain the works of parishes, schools, agencies and outreach programs of the diocese.

For more information, visit the Web at www.ccfphx.org.