When parishioners across the Archdiocese of Boston attend Mass this weekend, they will be reminded of the importance of supporting the 2004 Annual Catholic Appeal in an outreach known as Reminder Weekend, taking place on June 26 and 27.

This year’s Reminder Weekend occurs eight weeks after the launch of the 2004 Annual Catholic Appeal on May 1 and 2. Since the launch of this year’s Catholic Appeal, $6.8 million has been raised through the support of more than 40,000 of the area faithful. A $10.5 million goal has been set for the 2004 Appeal effort, representing an increase of $1.5 million over last year’s $9 million goal. Close to 47,000 Catholics gave to the 2003 Catholic Appeal, raising more than $10.3 million.

According to Damien DeVasto, director of the Catholic Appeal Campaign, the continued support of the Annual Catholic Appeal by area Catholics demonstrates their recognition of the need to continue the good works of the Church.

"The Appeal represents an opportunity for parishioners to support the wider Church beyond their parish boundaries, as well as to participate in the unique mission and collective spirit of our faith," notes DeVasto.

The Annual Catholic Appeal is the primary source of financial support for more than 80 ministries, programs and agencies serving the people in the archdiocese. “Our once-a-year appeal provides the means required to offer hope and to help those in need – whether they are your friends and neighbors, seniors, children, young adults, those who are ill, the bereaved or clergy, religious and lay leaders,” explains DeVasto. “We are deeply appreciative of so many of the area faithful who have made sacrificial gifts to this year’s Catholic Appeal. Their gifts enable us to provide vital services to those in need. On behalf of the countless people who benefit and whose lives are impacted through the work of the Church, we are extraordinarily grateful.”

Indeed, donations made to the Annual Catholic Appeal help support such important works as supplying emergency food and shelter; tending to the spiritual needs of those who are sick; assisting adolescents who are striving to reach their full potential; offering a faith connection to college students and educating young people through Catholic schools and religious education classes.

"The Annual Catholic Appeal still needs the sacrificial support of parishioners. Our message of Together in Faith for Reminder Weekend to those who have yet to participate in our Catholic Appeal is that there is still time, time to allow us to continue the good works of the Church that make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and families throughout our five regions of the archdiocese,” DeVasto sums up. “It has been a challenging period in the life of our archdiocese; however, we are moving forward as a Church. And the good and essential of what we do comes through as we move forward, despite the challenges we face.”

For more information about the2004 Annual Catholic Appeal, call Damien DeVasto, director of the Catholic Appeal Campaign, at 617-746-5628.