June 30, 2020
Dear People of God in the Diocese of Chicago:
In recent months, we have learned to worship on Zoom and Facebook, care for one another by telephone and find creative ways to feed the hungry and support the burgeoning movement for racial justice--all while striving to keep our communities healthy. Thanks to your steadfast ministry, the light of the Risen Christ is a beacon shining in communities across our region during this extraordinarily difficult time.
In December, you will elect the thirteenth bishop of this diocese, and I will retire. During more than twelve years of our shared ministry, your generosity has supported energetic congregational development, vibrant Latino ministry, vital anti-racism work, and support for the faithful congregations of the Peoria deanery, among many other initiatives. Come December, I am eager to tell the next bishop of Chicago that the people of this diocese are already preparing a welcoming gift in the form of a successful Bishop's Appeal, and that your generosity will enable and enhance their ministry as it has enabled and enhanced mine.
Thank you for your generosity in these final months of our time together as we continue to stand fast on the love and mercy of God in Christ.
Faithfully,
At the Great Vigil of Easter, the Paschal Candle is lit from the new fire.
