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Dear Friends, 
September 2009
My dear friends in Christ,
Congratulations are in order!
In 1984, Bishop James Mahoney implemented the Bishop's Annual Appeal in the Diocese of
Saskatoon. Now, in 2009, you have carried out 25 successful Appeals. For this I honour you and
I commend you, but most of all - I thank you.
From Wilkie to Wadena, from Fox Valley to Langham, from the city of Saskatoon to the community
of Nobleville, we have been stewards of our many blessings, sharing the gifts we have received,
with gratitude and sacrifice, for the good of all. And what we did, we did together.
We have fed the hungry, comforted the sick, supported vocations to the priesthood, nurtured the
faith of our children, and enhanced adult faith formation. We have promoted respect for life and
supported families in crisis. We have strengthened and revitalized parishes. We have journeyed
with our brothers and sisters: the imprisoned, the deaf, the marginalized, the poor.
For 25 years we have been telling the story of the Appeal. The details and characters have varied
from year to year but essentially, the heart of the story remains the same, echoing the words
of Jesus:
"Whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me."
(Matthew 25:40)
But we dare not rest in the pride of previous achievements, or fall into complacency. The cost of
supporting the quality and expanse of these ministries and services increases annually. Now,
more than ever, renewed efforts and enthusiasm are needed. And so I ask each of you to do the
following:
- Please, continue to pray for all this good work.
- Learn more about the diocesan initiatives named in this year's brochure.
- Sincerely evaluate your pledge and consider if and how you can increase it appropriately.
I offer special thanks to the BAA volunteers who have served in parishes, (some since 1984!) assuming
a leadership role with remarkable dedication. You are the cornerstone of the Appeal's
success. And yes, new volunteers are always needed and welcomed!
On behalf of all our "brothers and sisters" who are blessed by your participation in the Annual Appeal,
I offer you my heartfelt gratitude. Every gift, every prayer, every visit makes a difference.
May God continue to bless you as you continue to share God's blessings.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Rev. Albert LeGatt
Bishop Administrator
Diocese of Saskatoon
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