Bishop's Letter

 January 2010

Dear Friends,

This past year has given us much to think about. The economy has challenged us to be cautious and at the same time, has also helped us to realize that the gifts of life and health, the love of family and friends, and the support we have in our Catholic community, comprise our most valuable possessions. We give thanks to God for his many blessings and ask for the wisdom to take the next steps into the future, trusting that the Lord will be always with us.

Each of us is a unique steward of God’s gifts and, as such, we are called to share with others the riches we have received.  Our Annual Diocesan Appeal provides us with an opportunity to share our blessings with others and enables our local Church to meet the challenge of being a strong Catholic Community of faith and service in this Valley of Saint Clare.

As we continue Growing Together in Faith, we are aware that the cultural diversity of our  people is one of the greatest treasures of the Diocese of San Jose.  I invite you to take a glimpse of this diversity in this brochure which is printed in three languages.  Our unity in this diversity gives us cause to rejoice as an ever-growing family of faith, together in Christ.

It is my hope that by your contributions to the Annual Diocesan Appeal, you will choose to continue your support of our service to this great community of believers.  We are depending upon you, and the success of our 2010 campaign will begin with you.  

Please allow me to thank you, in advance, for your prayerful consideration and for your gifts to our Appeal.  I continue to remember you, your families, and your loved ones in my daily Mass and prayer.

With every best wish and kind regard, I remain,

Sincerely yours,

Patrick J. McGrath
Bishop of San Jose