June 20, 2001

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

This past Saturday, June 16, we in the Archdiocese of Atlanta celebrated a truly remarkable day.

Although many people had worked to prepare for this celebration of the feast of Corpus Christi 2001, the fifth anniversary of the Eucharistic Renewal in the archdiocese, what unfolded was somewhat like the hundred-fold yield promised by Our Lord in Scripture.

The gathering was more than human effort alone could have produced. The day held a joyful awareness of the Lord’s nearness and the Lord’s blessings as Catholics took part in eucharistic adoration, heard the excellent speakers, enjoyed the fellowship of other Catholics from across the archdiocese, and worshipped together at the closing Vigil Mass for the solemnity of Corpus Christi.

I was truly amazed by the number of people, estimated at over 12,000, who set aside part or all of this day to celebrate our common faith, particularly our belief in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. We were all refreshed and strengthened, I believe, as so many Catholics gathered together, prayed together and saw a panorama of the Catholic presence in North Georgia.

I know that literally hundreds of people worked to make this day one that would give honor and glory to God and build up the Catholic faith community. It began with a hard-working committee meeting regularly for the past 16 months. From there, a corps of volunteers contributed whatever was asked and whatever was necessary to ensure that “Come To Me” was a day of great celebration, for Catholics returning to the practice of their faith, and for those seeking to deepen their knowledge and commitment to Christ.

So many donated their time and their gifts, and so many others were hidden participants offering prayer and sacrifices for the spiritual success of this endeavor, that it is truly impossible for me to thank each one of you by name.

To all who helped and gave so generously of themselves, I want to express my deep appreciation and gratitude for all that you have done and all the work that was necessary to make Corpus Christi 2001 such a great success. I know the magnitude of the task and truly appreciate your efforts.

Gratefully I reflect on the assurance given in the Gospel of St. Matthew that good deeds and prayers done in secret are seen by our heavenly Father “and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you” (Mt: 6:4,6).

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend John F. Donoghue

Archbishop of Atlanta