Dear friends in Christ,

It is most appropriate that the theme for the 2007 Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) is "Affirming the Gifts of the Spirit."  Indeed, the Holy Spirit has been shining upon our local Church in countless ways this past year.  As your Chief Shepherd, I have seen the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes again and again through the generous, collaborative spirit of dedicated clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Detroit.  I thank you for your fidelity to the Church and the gift of your time, talent, and treasure.

During the 17 years I have been with you, our local Church and metro area have changed greatly.  As we have lived through times of economic challenges and many uncertainties, we have grown closer to the Lord and one another, appreciating how the sharing of our gifts and resources truly make us one flock in the Lord.

Now in its 26th year, the Catholic Services Appeal allows me, my auxiliary bishops and Central Services staff to provide an abundance of ministries and services in all six counties of the archdiocese.  From Sacred Heart Major Seminary to resources for our parish, vicariate, youth and young adult leaders… from contemporary communication media to outreach to the poor, the vulnerable, and marginalized… the Catholic Services Appeal provides the needed funding to fuel these and many other efforts no one parish or group of parishes could provide.

Affirming our gifts, let us express our gratitude and joy for the many ways the Holy Spirit continues to work within us and among us in our homes, our parishes, and our communities.  And, in doing so, I ask you to prayerfully consider a pledge to this year's Catholic Services Appeal.  I thank you in advance for your commitment to the Church and its many ministries, and assure you of my prayerful best wishes as we continue together on our pilgrim way.  Amen.

†Adam Cardinal Maida
Archbishop of Detroit