Message from Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As I consider the past year, there are many facets of the Catholic Community Foundation that serve as a testament to the selfless nature of Catholic stewardship. In a time of uncertainty, there has been a resurgent sharing of gifts and renewed concern for the human person. This generosity has been met with deep gratitude and together, they powerfully demonstrate how everything good is a gift from God.

The appreciation expressed to priests at the Crozier Gala and in many other ways by the Foundation truly lifted spirits throughout our priestly community and in parishes across the Diocese. By highlighting and focusing on our role as priestly people, the Foundation and its benefactors reinforced our sense of community as God’s family.

As members of that family, Foundation donors gave generously to assist those in need. Recognizing that this was indeed sacrificial for many, I am deeply grateful for your devoted stewardship. Friendships are often tested and deepened during difficult times; it has been a privilege to witness the depth of your dedication and support. Knowing that Christ’s example is always before us, we become more like Him as we give without condition.

As we look to the future, the Foundation will continue to provide concrete assistance to those in need. Yet in its heartfelt commitment to parishes, schools, and particularly, young people, the Foundation serves also as an instrument of hope—sharing its gifts of service with the wider community. Again, your generosity and our abiding gratitude express our shared hope to walk in the light of the Lord. Thank you.

May the Lord bless you always.

Sincerely yours in Christ,


+ Thomas J. Olmsted

Bishop of Phoenix

We ask you, O Lord, for the gifts of your Spirit… Grant that we may share with others the goods you have p ut at our disposal… Send us your spirit to lead to full unity your sons and daughters in full charity, in obedience to your will; through Christ our Lord. Amen. From Litany for Christian Unity by Pope John Paul II

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As I consider the past year, there are many facets of the Catholic Community Foundation that serve as a testament to the selfless nature of Catholic stewardship. In a time of uncertainty, there has been a resurgent sharing of gifts and renewed concern for the human person. This generosity has been met with deep gratitude and together, they powerfully demonstrate how everything good is a gift from God.

The appreciation expressed to priests at the 2010 Crozier Gala and in many other ways by the Foundation truly lifted spirits throughout our priestly community and in parishes across the Diocese. By highlighting and focusing on our role as priestly people, the Foundation and its benefactors reinforced our sense of community as God’s family.

As members of that family, Foundation donors gave generously to assist those in need. Recognizing that this was indeed sacrificial for many, I am deeply grateful for your devoted stewardship. Friendships are often tested and deepened during difficult times; it has been a privilege to witness the depth of your dedication and support. Knowing that Christ’s example is always before us, we become more like Him as we give without condition.

As we look to the future, the Foundation will continue to provide concrete assistance to those in need. Yet in its heartfelt commitment to parishes, schools, and particularly, young people, the Foundation serves also as an instrument of hope—sharing its gifts of service with the wider community. Again, your generosity and our abiding gratitude express our shared hope to walk in the light of the Lord. Thank you.

May the Lord bless you always.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+ Thomas J. Olmsted

Bishop of Phoenix