A Monthly Publication of the Diocese of Allentown
Very shortly, we as a diocese will be entering into the Holy Season of Lent. It gives me great joy to write to you as we begin to celebrate our journey through the desert to the Cross leading to Easter. Lent is a time for us to be reminded that our journey with the Lord calls us to be drawn more deeply into conversion. According to Saint Paul "conversion," represents a complete change of mind and heart. Throughout our lives the world is trying to form our minds according to worldly principles, earthly values, and we can become so attached to things of this world that we forget that our true home is heaven. "The Word becomes flesh and dwells among us." (John 1:14, adapted) so that our minds and bodies can be transformed by grace in Christ. May our hearts and minds be focused less on earthly values and more on God's plan for our lives. Thank you again for your continued generosity and support of the BISHOP’S ANNUAL APPEAL. May the Season of Lent bring you closer to the spirit of faith, hope and charity. Sincerely yours in Christ, Most Reverend
Edward P. Cullen, D.D. Catholic
Charities Counseling Services Offer Hope
Stacy met with Case Manager, Mary Hoben of the Pregnancy Support Services program. After the birth of her son, Stacy learned that the baby was born with a gastrointestinal disorder, which required numerous surgeries and hospital stays. The next couple of months were very stressful for her and her family. Through Catholic
Charities, Stacy continued receiving counseling, support and material
assistance to help her and her family get through this difficult
time. The family was also assisted through the Christmas Adopt-a-Family
program. Stacy and her family are doing much better now. Her son's
medical condition has stabilized. Her husband's work injury has
improved, and he hopes to get back to work soon. Stacy continues
to see Mary Hoben regularly for counseling and support. Thanks to
your support, Mary will be available to Stacy in 2009. *names have been changed to protect the privacy of the family Facebook is a social networking website that offers people the opportunity to connect with family and friends. In some cases, the website affords you the opportunity to connect or reconnect with people over great distances. The Office of Stewardship and Development has created a Facebook group, open to anyone who wishes to connect with friends around the Diocese of Allentown who support the Bishop's Annual Appeal. A free Facebook account is required. Join our Facebook Group now. |
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Dear
Friends, 
*Stacy
contacted the Schuylkill/Carbon Office of Catholic Charities, Diocese
of Allentown in July for assistance with food. Her husband was out
of work due to an on-the-job injury, and she was recently laid off.
She was also pregnant with her third child, due in October.