A message from Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan
Dear Friends in the Lord:
In these first few months as your new Archbishop, as I travel throughout the Archdiocese, I have been told by many of the wonderful bicentennial events of last year. The Masses, Prayer Services, receptions, concerts, and exhibitions-on the Archdiocesan and Vicariate levels-brought us together ever more closely as a community of faith. Of course, the visit by our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, was the highlight of our celebrations.
Now, we are about to complete the final component of our Bicentennial Anniversary, the Capital Campaign, and I am delighted about it for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it gives me an opportunity to be part of the year-long celebrations, even if only in some small way. The clergy, religious, and faithful of this, our great Archdiocese, have been so very welcoming and supportive of me since the announcement of my appointment that I am delighted to take this opportunity to take everyone for their kindnesses during this historic period in our history. Second, and no less important, I am delighted to announce that we have just completed our most successful fundraising campaign ever. Without your support and generosity, this would not have been possible. For this, you have my heartfelt gratitude.
As you may know, the purpose of our Capital Campaign was parish-oriented, enabling each to make significant strides and progress in addressing critical needs such as capital improvements; construction and restoration projects; enhancements in religious education, youth ministry, schools, evangelization, and various outreach programs; and financial stability. In short, the Campaign ensured the long-term sustainability of our pastoral, educational, and charitable ministries for generations to come.
As we turn towards the next century, I thank you for all that you have done this past year, especially through the Capital Campaign, to make the Archdiocese of New York stronger and more vibrant than ever. To fulfill our vision for the years to come, I, as your Archbishop, will need to continue to count on your assistance in many ways. I am convinced that, together, we will be able to expand and enhance our services, especially to our bothers and sisters in the Lord who are most in need. Please pray for me as we build upon the past and prepare for the future, and be assured that you and your loved ones will be remembers in my prayers as well.
With prayerful best wishes, I am,
Faithfully in Christ,
Most Reverend Timothy M. Dolan
Archbishop of New York
