Bishop and Chancery

A Letter from Bishop Sweeney

My dear friends in Christ,

The late Cardinal of Washington DC, James Hickey, once commented on the role of the Church in assisting those in need. He said that the Church provided help to thousands of people each year “not because they’re Catholic, but because we’re Catholic.” No better words can describe the work of Catholic Charities here in the Paterson Diocese.

As I continue through my ministry as the 8th Bishop of Paterson, it has been a wonderful experience to learn of all the good work that is done by Catholic Charities here in our Diocese. I have seen that the work and ministry of Catholic Charities in our Diocese is inspired and guided by a motivation that comes from the corporal works of mercy and the teaching of our Lord Jesus, especially Matt. 25: 31-46. To those who work for Catholic Charities, it is not simply a job but a vocation. As a result, those who cross our threshold in desperate need are not strangers, but individuals, sisters and brothers, made in the image of God.

Our Diocese provides dozens of unique programs for people throughout Morris, Passaic and Sussex counties. Whether it is providing food for a family that would otherwise go hungry, welcoming a disabled adult to one of our group homes or comforting a person fighting the scourge of chemical addition, our Catholic Charities offer services with love and compassion.

May God bless the staff of Catholic Charities, our selfless volunteers, our generous benefactors and especially the people we serve.

Faithfully yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Kevin J. Sweeney, D.D.
Bishop of Paterson

Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney - News From the Beacon, the Newspaper for the Diocese of Paterson