February 10, 2019, Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

It is with deep humility and gratitude to you, the people of the Diocese of Gallup that I announce the theme of our 2019 Bishop’s Annual Appeal: “Be Trustworthy Stewards”.

The Catholic Church in the United States, as well as world-wide, is experiencing much pain and anger over the recent revelations of abuse on the part of some of the hierarchy. These actions are inexcusable, and call for repentance and renewal throughout the Church. I’d like to invite you to join me in these actions so that the Kingdom of God might be made known throughout our diocese and the world.

I would like to invite you to prayerfully consider a contribution to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal. This year’s theme “Trustworthy Stewardship”, which is taken from 1 Corinthians 4: 1-2,5: “thus one should regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Now it is of course required of stewards that they be found trustworthy…the Lord will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will manifest the motives of our hearts.”

When you consider a contribution to the Appeal, think of the message and example of Christ, who came to serve, and not to be served. My desire is to use your contributions in a trustworthy manner, to serve the least of these as Christ commands us (MT 25:40). Barring the small cost of producing these Appeal materials, all of your contributions help the ministries of the Diocese of Gallup. These ministries serve those who, here and now, every day, have great need. Priests and sisters throughout the Diocese, who tirelessly serve our communities, rely on funds from the Appeal for food, clothing, and living expenses. The homeless, poor, and needy people of our communities, regardless of religious background, visit our Catholic Charities agencies for emergency shelter, food, and housing help. Our Catholic schools, which educate and evangelize entire communities, require aid for supplies, maintenance and utilities. All these, and many more receive the benefit of your generous prayers and contributions.

I ask you to consider these, your neighbors, during this introductory Appeal season, and I ask that you pray for me, that I be a faithful steward of your gifts. One day I must face God in judgment, as will we all, and I will answer for how I have acted as a shepherd for the souls in my care. For as the Gospel reminds us, “there is nothing done in darkness that will not be brought to light.” (Luke 8:17)

I remain yours in the living Christ

Bishop James S. Wall