The Bishop’s Circle, the diocesan fundraising appeal re-launched in November after being on hold for five years, has collected more than $141,000 to date in gifts ranging from $10 to $10,000, according to Mark Clark, director of the Office of Stewardship, which is coordinating the effort.
The money goes toward diocesan ministries.
According to Clark, the funds were collected from former Bishop’s Circle members, new members, clergy, staff, parishes and faith communities.
The appeal goes through June. A thanksgiving Mass and reception for Bishop’s Circle members is planned for late July.
The Bishop’s Circle was started by Bishop Joseph A. Ferrario in the 1980s. Bishop Silva put it on hold in 2009 when the diocese launched the With Grateful Hearts capital campaign.
The bishop brought back the circle in November with an invitation letter to about 3,000 Catholics, mostly people who have fulfilled their With Grateful Hearts campaign pledges.
The diocesan Office for Stewardship and Development describes the appeal as a way of “honoring the Lord with the fruits of your stewardship of treasure.”
The Bishop’s Circle is primarily an appeal for large donations, although any amount will be accepted. Its five suggested donation levels, or “societies,” range from the $1,000 “Catholic Ohana Society” to the $20,000 or more “Our Lady of Peace Society.”
Donations to this year’s appeal are being accepted through June 30 by check or online at catholichawaii.org.
For more information, visit catholichawaii.org/stewardship or call the Office of Stewardship at 203-6723.