Bishop's Leadership Society begins annual DDD

Intermountain Catholic

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Bishop John C. Wester is greeted by G. Frank Joklik as he arrives at the Bishop's Leadership Society reception Jan. 13 at St. Vincent de Paul Parish's Holy Family Center. IC photos by Barbara S. Lee

SALT LAKE CITY — The 2008 Diocesan Development Drive is well underway after the reception meeting of the Bishop’s Leadership Society Jan. 13 at St. Vincent de Paul Parish’s Holy Family Center. The Leadership Society consists of donors who kick off the drive with their initial donations and pledges.

The theme for the 2008 drive, "Abide in Christ: Our Journey together," is taken from Bishop John C. Wester’s Episcopal motto: "Abide in Christ."

"Leadership is not common," Bishop Wester said. "We value leadership, but we don’t always get it. The characteristics of a good leader are: one who knows the group, the family, or the organization he or she leads; is a person of vision; is willing to take risks; and is committed to the group and its goals. You are here because you are all committed to getting the job of the Diocesan Development Drive done this year, and I am grateful for your presence here."

Bishop Wester said Pope Benedict XVI assigned him to be leader of the church in Utah, but he cannot do it alone. "We need your help. We’re church together."

The Diocesan Development Drive is the Diocese of Salt Lake City’s annual fund drive to support the ministries of the bishop. In the days leading up to the leadership reception, Bishop Wester said, he had been meeting with various groups – the Presbyteral Council, the Diocesan Pastoral Council, his cabinet, religious men and women serving the diocese, and deacons – and identifying the diocese’s needs and priorities.

"We are preparing for the future in a multi-cultural church," the bishop said. "We have issues of growth, a need for more vocations and the ongoing formation of priests and deacons. Our ministry to youth and young adults is very important, as are our educational responsibilities, including the lay ecclesial ministry.

"These are exciting times for the Catholic Church in Utah, and we appreciate the support of the Bishop’s Leadership Society."

Asking those present to consider making a major gift to assist those ministries mentioned, the bishop spoke of trust. "I am impressed with the goodness of the Catholics in Utah. I believe in you and that you will make good decisions."

He suggested that all Catholics in Utah give generously to the local church (their own parish or diocese), the national church (through Catholic Charities USA), and the global church, through Catholic Relief Services.

"God is the Lord of the Picnic," Bishop Wester said. "He is the God of more, and he will always bless us. We must do the same for others."