“You are my chosen witnesses.” This Scripture from the prophet Isaiah shows us that we are called to bear witness to God’s mercy. This is not merely a passive role; it involves actively proclaiming the truth of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. The call to be witnesses indicates that our existence and experiences are meant to reflect God’s glory and truth to the nations. 

There are many ways we can be witnesses, but one important way is by participating in our Diocesan Services Appeal (DSA). Our DSA offerings and their effects are a powerful testimony to both our community and to the broader society of our Catholic faith.

Your DSA gifts enable the Church to give care and support to those who need it most. Our Catholic Charities provide food and shelter to the destitute and offer counseling to those struggling with addiction. Life Ministries arranges care and support to mothers and children of unplanned pregnancies. Vocations are fostered through the support of marriage prep programs, seminarian formation, and training for the diaconate. Programs are offered to foster active evangelization efforts in our parishes. The DSA sustains all these and many more ministries that proclaim our witness to the love of Jesus. Our DSA donations are vital to our ability to perform the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. 

Brothers and sisters, our Diocesan Services Appeal offers an incredible opportunity to demonstrate one way for us to be witnesses. By supporting our parishes and the many ministries of our wider Catholic Church – through the DSA – we can truly proclaim that we are “chosen witnesses.” With your support, we will carry out the work of the Church in the year ahead. 

Thank you! May God bless you for all that you do with and for one another.

Yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Earl Boyea

Bishop of Lansing