Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I hope this message finds you and your loved ones well, enjoying the blessings of summer. I am writing to invite you to participate in the upcoming National Combined Collection, which will be held in our parishes on the weekend of August 30 & 31, 2025. This annual collection supports several important initiatives: the Catholic Communications Campaign, the Retirement Fund for Religious, Catholic University of America, and Peter’s Pence.

As St. Luke reminds us, “Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.” (Luke 6:38). I encourage you to reflect on these words as you prayerfully consider your support for those in need both here at home and around the world.

The Catholic Communications Campaign helps bring the message of the Gospel to people across the U.S. and beyond. Half of the funds raised stay right here in the Diocese of Norwich, supporting local projects like the Four County Catholic. Your contribution helps expand access to faith-filled media and encourages deeper spiritual connection.

The Retirement Fund for Religious supports the aging members of religious orders—sisters, brothers, and priests— who have devoted their lives to serving the Church. Many of them now face challenges due to inadequate retirement funding and rising health care costs. Your generosity provides critical resources for their medical care, housing, and daily needs.

Your gift to Catholic University of America, the only university in the U.S. established by the country’s bishops and chartered by the Vatican, supports the education and formation of future leaders—lay, religious, and clergy—rooted in Catholic tradition. Finally, the Peter’s Pence portion of this collection helps our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, to carry out the mission of the Church, keeping it strong and able to extend a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in need. As always, I thank you for your generous support of your parish and for considering a gift to this vital collection.

You remain in my prayers with deep gratitude. In Christ’s peace,

Most Reverend Richard F. Reidy
Bishop of Norwich