BISHOP MALONE ANNOUNCES UPON THIS ROCK PROGRAM

                On February 18th, Bishop Richard Malone unveiled a bold new initiative for the Diocese of Buffalo called Upon This Rock.  This title is derived from the sacred Scriptures. In the Gospel of Matthew 7:24-29, Jesus’ disciples are encouraged to be like the wise man who built his house on rock. “When the rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house, it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock.”

                Upon This Rock is a five year initiative to raise $100 million to support the ongoing ministries of the Diocese. While February 18th marked the formal beginning of Upon This Rock, the campaign had already quietly begun in several parishes which were called Pilot Parishes. Each Parish in the Diocese will be involved in this endeavor over the next few years. Through the efforts of the Bishop himself and the Pilot Parishes that completed their part of Upon This Rock over $28 million has been raised. Each of the eight parishes in the Pilot phase have exceeded their goals, some by 40% and 50%.

                We at St. Louis Church are part of what is called the Block 1 parishes. There are several parishes involved in this phase of the program. I have been meeting with parishioners since before Christmas eliciting their support. Many of our parishioners have already generously supported this effort by their self-sacrifice and charity.

                Over the next several weeks you will be hearing more about his program. We will be asking all of our parishioners for their support. For now, please keep this effort in your prayers.