Annual Catholic Appeal

Peace: Let it Begin with Me

For more than 80 years, this proud history of giving has been a sustaining force. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River (formerly Catholic Social Services), the Secretariat for the New Evangelization, the Office of Pastoral Ministry for the Sick, and the Catholic Schools Office are a few of the benefiting entities. Together, they provide services from addressing hunger and homelessness, to diaconate and seminarian education, to comforting those who are infirm in our area hospitals, to support for retired clergy, to educating the next generation, and more.

“The Catholic Appeal’s donors help to create a beautiful quilt of kindness, opportunity, and compassion each year,” shares CEO of the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts Mim Sherman. “Each square represents a tangible difference to be made in the lives of so many and the resources made available. We are both proud and humbled to partner with our priests and parishes each year to create this opportunity for giving and uniting to advance the Catholic faith in action here in Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.”

The Diocese of Fall River’s many agencies, ministries, and programs strive to meet significant needs. Over the course of the year, the demand for them remains strong. The faithful may continue to support our brothers and sisters at any time.

“Peace: Let it Begin with Me” is the theme of the 2026 Catholic Appeal. The Appeal supports tens of thousands of people throughout our diocese: in Mansfield, Easton and the Attleboros, through the Taunton, Fall River, and New Bedford, extending across Cape Cod and the islands, and including all the towns in between.

“And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)