The Diocese of Wichita is gearing up to launch its Fully Alive! campaign in Wave One parishes, with a focus on building stronger relationships and advancing the mission of the diocesan church. Bishop Carl A. Kemme expressed his excitement about the campaign, stating, "It has been a great joy and honor to visit personally with so many people about this campaign." He further added, "I have loved sharing our vision for the future of the diocese, and I am humbled by the remarkable generosity we’ve seen already."

The campaign, which aims to support various initiatives such as salary enhancements for Catholic school teachers, the development of a family and youth camp, and serving the poor and vulnerable in communities, has already seen significant participation from key stakeholders. Bishop Kemme highlighted the strong leadership driving the campaign's success, stating, "We are blessed with outstanding leadership for this campaign."

Patrick Goebel, campaign chair, emphasized the impact of the campaign, stating, "Our gifts to the campaign will have a real and lasting impact on every parish, school, and ministry in our diocese." Fr. Drew Hoffman, a member of the Campaign Clergy Committee, expressed his hope that the campaign would energize the diocese and lead to increased stewardship.

With Wave One parishes set to kick off their active appeals after Easter, there is a sense of growing momentum and enthusiasm. Mike Wescott, diocesan director of Development and Planned Giving, noted the strong leadership within the parishes, stating, "It’s exciting to see momentum building in our Wave One parishes."

Frances Mitchelson, campaign chair, emphasized the importance of unity in the campaign, stating, "We have to do this together…we are asking not just for extraordinary gifts. We are asking everyone to participate in a way that is meaningful for them." Fr. H. Setter, pastor of St. Anthony, Garden Plain, and St. Mary, Aleppo, highlighted the excitement among parishioners and volunteers about the impact the campaign will have on the local community and the broader church.

As the campaign prepares to launch in Wave One parishes, there is a sense of anticipation and unity towards achieving the shared goals of the Fully Alive! campaign. More details about the campaign and its progress will be shared in the upcoming Catholic Advance.