Letter from the Bishop

Welcome to the 2008 Annual Diocesan Appeal, "Living Our Faith, Sharing Our Gifts...Together." This is a wonderful opportunity to assess our
stewardship of time, talent and treasure.

Time is a marvelous gift from God. In the ancient Greek language there were two words for time. Chronos referred to sequence of days, hours and minutes. We get our English word chronological from it. Kairos referred to the sacred and special gift of each moment of life. Time is not just the passing of days and hours but graced moments from God. How we use our time is critical. There is an old adage, "Tell me where you spend your time and I will know what is important to you."

Talent describes the special gifts God has given to each one of us. God does not create us with a universal mold but with a unique design for each person. Each person brings special talents to the table of life. The Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 demonstrates clearly how Jesus expects us to use our talents for others and not to bury them. Annually we need to assess if we are using our God-given talents wisely.

Treasure is using our material blessings for the good of the community. The Diocesan Appeal supports specific programs that affect the entire Diocese. The specific ministries listed in the Appeal brochure identify areas of the Diocese that need the support of all. These are ministries that impact the entire Diocese.

The annual Appeal supports 30% of our entire diocesan budget.

I ask you to discern your gifts of time, talent and treasure and participate in the Appeal according to the gifts you have received. A careful assessment and generous use of our Time, Talent and Treasure will enrich the entire diocese.

+William J. Dendinger
Bishop of Grand Island