CHARLOTTE — Catholic households across the Diocese of Charlotte are being asked to consider a donation to help fund the education of our future priests by giving to the seminarian education second collection taken up in all parishes Nov. 2-3.
“Impressive growth has taken place within our diocese over recent years, creating a need for priests to serve the growing numbers of Catholics in our diocese,” Bishop Michael Martin said in a recent letter to parishioners urging them to support the collection.
The number of seminarians has nearly tripled in the past four years – from 16 seminarians to 46.
“This is both a blessing and a challenge with the need to educate, nurture and form our future priests,” the bishop noted.
The need for more priests to serve the growing Catholic population has never been greater. The diocese saw a 26% increase in growth, from 58,500 registered households in 2010 to 73,700 in 2020. By 2025, it is estimated that the number of registered households will climb to 86,800.
“By contributing to the formation of our future priests, you are helping to ensure that the sacraments, spiritual guidance, and the light of Christ continue to reach every corner of our growing diocese,” the bishop said.
In addition to considering a gift to support all diocesan seminarians, Bishop Martin asks the faithful to pray for each of the men by name. The names of the seminarians are listed in the brochure sent to all households with the letter.
— Catholic News Herald
Support seminarian education
To make a gift to support seminarian education, please drop off or mail your contribution to your parish, return the form sent to your home, or make a secure gift online. If making an online gift, consult your parish’s website to see if they offer online giving or go to www.charlottediocese.org/donate, then click on “Seminarian Education Campaign.”