To make a contribution to the
  Bishop's Annual Appeal   
please click on the donate button

If you prefer to donate by direct deposit, click here to download the "Diocese of Nashville Authorization Agreement for Direct Deposits ( ACH DEBITS). Please fill it out and mail it to the Catholic Center, 2400 Twenty-first Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37212, Attention Stewardship Office.

Mission Statement of the Stewardship and Development Committee of the Diocesan Finance Board
To serve as an advisor to the Bishop of the Diocese of Nashville and the Director of Stewardship and Development concerning fundraising and the promotion of stewardship, so that as a faith community we can witness to Jesus Christ through charity and service.

Function
A standing committee of the Finance Board of the Diocese of Nashville, the Chair of the Stewardship and Development Committee is also a member of the Finance Board and serves as a liaison between the two organizations. Two additional members of the Finance Board serve on the committee. Members of the Committee are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Bishop of Nashville who makes the appointments in consultation with the Chair of the Finance Board. The term of service for members of the committee is five years.

Scope
The Stewardship and Development Committee should advise and recommend strategies and procedures concerning the following elements of the Strategic Plan of the Diocese of Nashville:

Stewardship
A comprehensive, biblically based stewardship process in accord with the U.S. Bishops’ Pastoral Letter, Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response that would foster giving of time, talent, and financial resources at both the diocesan and parish levels.

Capital or Endowment Needs
As identified by the Bishop, in consultation and collaboration with his advisory groups.

Annual Needs
Funds for Operating Budget as identified by the Bishop and his staff, primarily through the Bishop’s Annual Appeal.

Planned Giving
Assist in the development of a plan to build the diocesan endowment through wills, trusts, annuities and other planned gifts. Guide the establishment of the proposed Middle Tennessee Catholic Foundation.

Individual Parishes/Schools/Institutions
Identify resources as projects arise. Monitor progress of fundraising efforts.

Communications
Review printed materials and publications. Assist in the procurement of database information to enable proper communication between the Bishop and his parishioners. Other communications related matters as needed.

Special Concerns and Projects
As identified by the Bishop and his advisory groups as they arise.

The Catholic Foundation of Tennessee

The Catholic Foundation of Tennessee, Inc. is a membership corporation with an annual voting membership fee of $1,000 and a $500 non-voting membership. A Gold Membership is granted to donors of more than $1,500. Annually the accumulated membership fees and other gifts are distributed per the members’ vote in the form of grants to parishes and other organizations in the Diocese of Nashville. Read more...

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE BISHOP’S ANNUAL APPEAL

"What is the Bishop’s Annual Appeal?
The Bishop’s Annual Appeal is a diocese-wide effort that supports the pastoral services of the Catholic Church in Middle Tennessee. It is an opportunity for all Catholics in our diocese to express unity with one another in carrying out our call, especially to help those who are vulnerable and in need. Whereas the diocesan parish assessment funds the governance offices of the diocese mandated by Church law (such as the Bishop’s and the Chancellor’s Offices), the Bishop’s Annual Appeal funds diocesan ministries and services.

How does the Bishop’s Annual Appeal benefit our parish and our community?
Diocesan pastoral programs funded through the Bishop’s Annual Appeal help parish programs in such areas as religious education, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, youth ministry, schools, married life and many other worthy efforts. Throughout the diocese, the Bishop’s Annual Appeal helps fund ministry formation, Catholic schools, youth ministry, clergy development, prison ministry and more.

How do we make a pledge to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal?
Please complete the pledge card that has been mailed to your home (also available at church) and return it to the parish on “Pledge Sunday.” Extra pledge cards will be available at church. You will receive an envelope from the diocese with which to make your monthly, quarterly, or annual payment. The dates for the 2012 Bishop's Annual Appeal are:

Appeal Sunday, November 5 - 6, 2011
Pledge Sunday, November 12 - 13, 2011
Follow-up Sunday, November 19 - 20, 2011

Why should we pledge?
Our Bishop’s Annual Appeal pledge is part of our Christian stewardship of treasure. Our motivation for giving is gratitude for all the blessings we have received from God. We must ask ourselves, what return shall we make to the Lord? While we receive many requests for charitable gifts, our Church should be a priority consideration for our charitable support.

  CLICK HERE to make a Donation 
 

Ron Szejner, Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving
615-783-0278 Fax: 615-292-8411
Ron.Szejner@dioceseofnashville.com

Ella Bell-Vannoy, Database Coordinator
615-783-0253 Fax: 615-292-8411
Ella.Bell-Vannoy@dioceseofnashville.com