|
CDA set to kick off this weekend
By Ambria Hammel, The Catholic Sun
January 17, 2008
Steve Zabilski, who is co-chairing this year’s Charity and Development Appeal with his wife, Denise, remembers when two siblings visited his office and emptied their piggy banks in front of him.
The change totaled less than $2, but Zabilski, executive director of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, saw their faith and great love.
“You almost don’t have to tell them anything,” he said. “They get a sense that they’re doing God’s work.”
Catholics will get a taste of what millions can do for more than 70 diocesan and community organizations when parishes introduce the 2008 Charity and Development Appeal at all Masses during the next two weekends.
That’s when guest speakers will talk about the appeal’s “One Family in Christ” focus, its $10.5 million goal and how to get involved.
Churchgoers will also see an eight-minute video in English or Spanish, depending on the Mass. It shows the Zabilskis as co-chairs of the appeal, but focuses on the people who have been helped by the CDA.
“Our priests themselves are presenting the stories of what occurs within their parishes,” said Fr. Bud Pelletier, vicar of stewardship for the diocese. “They are our spiritual leaders and the voice for those who need our care.”
Dominican Father Fred Lucci, director of the All Saints Newman Center in Tempe, reminded churchgoers that CDA funding makes parish-based faith formation programs — including the Newman Center’s — possible.
During last year’s appeal, Catholics on and near the college campus responded. The Newman Center reached its participation and fundraising goal within the first three weeks of the appeal.
Parishes, Catholic schools and other diocesan ministries are among the groups the CDA supports.
Zabilski sees firsthand how the CDA affects the greater community. His work at St. Vincent de Paul keeps him involved with many CDA-funded social service agencies, including the Foundation for Senior Living, Catholic Charities Community Services, St. Joseph the Worker and Maggie’s Place.
“They rely on the generosity of the CDA to carry out their vital ministries,” Zabilski said.
Denise, his wife, knows many Catholic schools do too. She is grateful for CDA funding because it allows teachers to reinforce the faith taught at home. That’s why she and Steve chose Catholic education for their three children.
It has paid off. Two of the Zabilski children have since transferred to a private high school. One of them had the knowledge and courage to stand against abortion during a classroom debate because of the foundation she received at Catholic school. She now wants to study theology.
“We want Catholics to understand the value of what is done for our family within the diocese as well as the value for them in following Christ’s example of coming not to be served, but to serve,” Fr. Pelletier said. “Supporting the CDA means both.”
There are several ways to support the CDA this year, including a new online option. Catholics can fill out a pledge card committing to prayerful or financial support at Mass on either of the next two weekends. Parishes hope to have 100 percent participation.
For the first time in CDA history, donors can opt to make a contribution online at the Office of Stewardship’s Web site.
What’s great about the CDA, Zabilski said, is that “it invites all people in our diocese to participate in God’s will for creation.”
Mary Elizabeth, the Zabilski’s eldest daughter, said that includes teens like her.
“It’s not just for our parents,” Mary Elizabeth said. “We’re called to give back to God as well. We’ve also been given so many gifts.”
Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted agreed.
“The CDA is an eloquent expression of our love for God and our stewardship of His gifts,” he said.
The Zabilskis said it is their hope and prayer that everyone will consider being a part of the 2008 appeal.
“It doesn’t mean we have to be rich,” Steve said. “Don’t think: ‘I don’t have a lot.’ Yes, we do.”
|
