One of the greatest blessings of serving as your bishop is witnessing how the people of our diocese live the Gospel in places where hope is needed most. Prison Ministry is one of those places.
When I visit correctional facilities or hear the stories of those who faithfully serve there, I am reminded that no one is beyond God's mercy. Every person is created in the image and likeness of God. Every person deserves to know that they are loved, forgiven and never forgotten by Christ or by his Church.
Through the Bishop's Annual Appeal, we are able to bring the presence of the Church into our prisons through the celebration of the sacraments, prayer, faith formation and compassionate volunteers who walk alongside our incarcerated brothers and sisters. These encounters often become moments of profound conversion, healing and renewed hope.
I often say that the true goal of the Bishop's Annual Appeal is to bring people to the Eucharist. Prison Ministry is a beautiful example of that mission. Behind prison walls, men and women are discovering Christ, returning to the sacraments and experiencing the peace that only he can give.
As you watch this impact story, I hope you will see that your generosity reaches far beyond what we often imagine. Every gift to the Bishop's Annual Appeal helps extend Christ's mercy throughout the Diocese of Raleigh, allowing us to fulfill our shared Catholic mission. Thank you for trusting in this mission and for helping us bring the hope of the Gospel to every corner of eastern North Carolina.