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	Diocese Hits $4.7 Million Goal Early By Bronislaus B. Kush Telegram & Gazette July 12, 2008 http://www.telegram.com/article/20080712/NEWS/807120344/1006/NEWSLETTERS07 WORCESTER— The Diocese of Worcester's annual Partners in Charity Appeal has already met its 2008 goal of raising $4.7 million, with seven weeks remaining in the campaign. "I offer thanks to God for the generosity and goodness of so many thousands of Catholics throughout the Diocese of Worcester, who have taken to heart the challenge of the Lord himself to serve the needy, and, who have made donations to insure that our pastoral, educational and charitable mission will remain strong in the year ahead," Bishop Robert J. McManus said. Diocesan officials were concerned that the weak U.S. economy might impact the campaign, which funds a variety of educational, religious and social service programming throughout Worcester County. "Clearly, our parishioners are responding to the need to help many thousands of individuals and families, who will face even greater challenges during the year ahead," said Monsignor Thomas J. Sullivan, the diocesan director of development, who oversees the appeal. To date, the campaign has brought in $4,730,216, or 100.64 percent of the $4.7 million goal. This year's benchmark is the highest ever. Monsignor Sullivan said that 101 parishes have met or exceeded their goals and that 49 of them have already raised more donations this year than last, some by significant amounts. Thirteen parishes are within 10 percent of meeting their goals. The average donation in 2008 has been $235, $36 more than last year. About 4,000 people who gave last year have yet to contribute and diocesan officials are hopeful that they will donate, pushing this year's campaign well beyond its goal.
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