FEBRUARY 23, 2024

Dear Friends,

The Season of Lent provides us with a time for prayerful reflection. Here at the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts, I am reflecting on our role in supporting the spiritual and corporal works taking place every day across the Diocese of Fall River and am filled with immense gratitude for the donors who have joined with us. We are grateful for the many ways that your support has helped our parishes, schools, social services, vocations, and more.

As we mark the Diocese of Fall River’s 120^th anniversary, I ask that you continue to join with us in serving our brothers and sisters. There are many ways to get involved and this edition of the Forward in Faith newsletter highlights a few—including the Lumen Christi Gala, a big celebration for all in the Diocese taking place in June.

Miriam Finn Sherman

CEO, The Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts

CATHOLIC FOUNDATION OF SOUTHEASTERN MASSACHUSETTS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.

CO-DIRECTORS

Patrick Carney

Nicholas M. Christ

MEMBERS

George Agostini

Rev. Marcel Bouchard

Richard L. Lafrance

Bob Long

Christine Long

Maryellen Sullivan Hughes

HONORARY BOARD MEMBER

Joseph Ciffolillo

Our Shepherds Thank You!

Thanks to the support of more than 1,000 donors, the Serving the Shepherds Fund has raised $125,000 to ensure our active and retired priests, those studying for the priesthood, and those who are just starting to discern their calling will be sustained throughout their ministry. Your generosity keeps our priests healthy, happy, and holy men...sustained in their lifelong mission to be there for all of us, each and every day.

Please enjoy this short video message to hear from retired priest Fr. George Bellenoit, seminarian Lucas daCosta, and Fr. John Garabedian of Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich. Their lives, and those of their brother priests, will be changed for the better thanks to our generous and loving donors.

There is still time to support the Serving the Shepherds Fund. Please consider making a gift or sending a priest your prayer request!

The Foundation to Advance Catholic Education

In 1991, the St. Mary’s Education Fund was founded to give students with financial need access to a Catholic education in the Diocese of Fall River. Today, the Foundation to Advance Catholic Education carries on this history of making Catholic education a reality for all families who desire one for their children.

Monsignor Prevost High School Lives On Through Scholarship Fund

After more than 50 years, the alumni association handed over the reins of managing the scholarship fund to FACE (The Foundation to Advance Catholic Education), the educational arm of the Catholic Foundation.

A team of eight FACE runners will participate in the Falmouth Road Race Numbers for Non-Profits again this year!

A few spots are still available!

Email for more information about joining the team.

News From Our Partners

Read Bishop da Cunha's Blog and subscribe to receive it by email!

Bishop's Blog

SAVE THE DATE: The Fall River Diocesan Day of Eucharistic Encounter is set for Saturday, September 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Bishop Connolly High School in Fall River. The day is planned as a key element in the diocesan observance of the National Eucharistic Revival now underway across the country. International author and speaker Chris Stefanick, who heads up Real Life Catholic, will be the featured speaker. This Day of Eucharistic Encounter will also include sessions in multiple languages, Mass, Adoration, vendors, and more. Families are welcome with activities available for children. As the Diocese celebrates its 120th anniversary year, join Bishop da Cunha in prayer for its renewal, turning to the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus. Learn more/register to take part here.

“The value of Catholic schools and what Catholic schools do to our young people no one else can do. We can offer not only a quality academic education, but we offer values and faith.”

~ Bishop Edgar da Cunha

Did You Know?

Stock donations can be more beneficial than donating cash, due to the tax advantages that may be associated with transferring appreciated stocks to a charitable organization such as the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts. Your stock donation can benefit your parish, school, the Catholic Appeal or other ministry in the Diocese of Fall River.

Click here to learn more!

www.catholicfoundationsema.org