A further step forward has been taken this week in the Archdiocesan Charities and Development Fund Drive. A brochure has been produced and circulated in the parishes exploring the goals and programs of the drive. This brochure will be used during the next four weeks.

The first step of the one-day cash drive has now been taken. On Sunday, February 9, the special gifts phase began. In this phase the brochure will be used to fully explain the program to those who can donate a special gift to the campaign. This particular phase is considered most important to the success of the overall drive.

The brochure gives a short history of the Church in North Georgia emphasizing the growth over the years, especially in recent times. It then highlights the needs and the programs. The missionary work of the archdiocese is also explained. But not just the rural missions but also the missionary aspect of inner-city work is developed.

The brochure also speaks of the work of vocations in the archdiocese, and our responsibility to the young in our Village. It also speaks of our responsibility to our priests who will retire soon. The other programs for which the archdiocese is responsible are also mentioned with a special emphasis on education.

All of the projects in the brochure are worthy of our interest. A minimum gift of $25 is requested on Sunday, March 9, to defray the costs of these projects.

In a letter printed in the brochure, Archbishop Donnellan states: “Our concern compels us to act, to pray, to give our time, to give a fair share of our material goods.” This message will be spread to all our parishes in preparation for Sunday, March 9.