Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The Archdiocese of Louisville has launched its 2024 Catholic Services Appeal as of October 1, aiming to support more than 100 programs and ministries throughout the region. The goal for this year's appeal is set at $4.2 million, surpassing last year's target of $4.1 million, which was exceeded by donors who contributed a record $4.24 million.

The theme for this year’s appeal is drawn from the Gospel of John: “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre highlighted the mission in the press release: “With these words, Jesus entrusted to His disciples a lifelong mission to share the Good News with great joy... Together, we are answering the call of Jesus as a Church community, bringing Christ to others in a multitude of ways.”

Funds raised will support various programs and ministries across parishes in the archdiocese. These include catechist formation, marriage preparation, and formation for deacons and seminarians. Additionally, there will be a focus on seminarian education through a "second-ask" option allowing donors to contribute specifically to the Seminarian Education Fund.

“The cost to educate a seminarian is on par with the average cost a typical graduate student would incur, approximately $65,000 per year,” according to the press release. With an increasing number of seminarians in training, the projected budget for seminarian education exceeds $1 million this year.

Father Martin Linebach emphasized the importance of supporting future church leaders: “These young men are the ones who will baptize your children; they are going to officiate at the weddings of your children; they will be with your parents and grandparents on their deathbed.”

Donations to the Seminarian Education Fund will benefit from matching gifts up to $75,000. This is one of three matching gift opportunities provided by anonymous donors during this appeal.

Melissa Herberger expressed gratitude for those involved in promoting and supporting the appeal: “We are especially grateful to the pastors and parish staff members at every parish... They see firsthand how funds from the Appeal impact every single parish.”

Molly Keene Smith also shared her appreciation for central Kentucky Catholics: “We are truly blessed to have such a strong and faithful Catholic community here in Central Kentucky... It is now our responsibility and privilege to continue their legacy and build a strong Church for future generations.”

For further information about contributing to the Catholic Services Appeal, interested parties can visit www.archlou.org/CSA or contact Melissa Herberger directly.