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From Our Bishop A Message from one of our Seminarians Website Updated Make a Gift

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From Our Bishop

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This is an important week for the Diocese of Allentown as we kickoff the 2009 BISHOP'S ANNUAL APPEAL (BAA). I want you to know that I understand that this economy has had a tremendous effect on many of you. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. At the same time, this economy has stretched our own resources to capacity as requests for assistance have increased throughout our Diocese to agencies like our own Catholic Charities.

This will be a time of great challenge for us, but it is a challenge that we can meet if we live by the Gospel values that Jesus taught us. Jesus said to His Disciples, "Love One Another As I Have Loved You." Jesus spoke these words at the Last Supper. Our Savior’s words and actions during the Last Supper showed His love for His Apostles and for us. Jesus calls us to follow this example to love and serve one another.

I thank you again for your continued service and generosity to the people of our Diocese and I ask for your support of the BAA during this most important year. May the Season of Easter continue to bring us closer to the spirit of faith, hope and charity for all of God's people.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Edward P. Cullen, D.D.
Bishop of Allentown

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A Message from one of our Seminarians
James M. Harper, III is a 3rd Year College Seminarian, Hometown: Fleetwood,
Parish: Holy Guardian Angels, Reading

Dear Friends,

Thank you to the people of the Diocese of Allentown for the support I have had in my three years as a seminarian and to all the seminarians in general. Especially, I thank you for your monetary assistance through the Bishop's Annual Appeal, which greatly assists with our education costs.

My vocation calling is important to me because it is a gratifying fulfillment to answer God's purpose for my life. Aside from any major theological thoughts on the meaning of vocations, I am particularly inspired to follow the priesthood for its manner of serving others within the Church.

In my third year, my studies focus primarily around philosophy. However, my favorite course at present would have to be Greek. Greek, as I am learning it, is best applied to studies of the New Testament. All of my studies will benefit in a better understanding of the Catholic faith. St. Charles has thus far been a great place for seminarian formation. I could not ask to have better peers and faculty than I already have here during my formation.

Gratefully,

James Harper

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Website Updated

Our BAA website is up to date. Please make a gift, watch the video or learn more about the BISHOP'S ANNUAL APPEAL by visiting us at www.adbaa.org.

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Visit our BISHOP'S ANNUAL APPEAL Website