Message from archbishop favalora

My dear friends,

Jesus Christ Himself tells us of the many trials His disciples must endure and promises us treasure in Heaven in the end. Even though these times are trying for us and for our Church, it is not the first time, nor will it be the last. Our Savior reminds us that we need not worry in the meantime; our Heavenly Father knows what we need even before we do, and if we are righteous in His sight, all our needs will be provided for.

This has been the belief that guides my service to you and what I have hoped to help you understand: God, as a loving Father, will always provide for us if only we believe. In this year of countless concerns and pressures, it is to God that we must turn. With love and perseverance, with utter trust in the Lord, we will find our way again. Remember that Our Father’s love is boundless, and Our Savior calls us time and again to love others as He has loved us, with tolerance, forgiveness, generosity and care.

It has been my duty and my honor to serve the people of God in the Archdiocese of Miami for 15 years. In that time, I have met people whose faith has inspired me, whose generosity has overwhelmed me, and whose prayers have enabled me to be your shepherd, following humbly in the path the Wise Counselor set before us.

This Church – founded on the death and resurrection of our Most Holy Savior who laid down His life so that we may live with Him eternally – this faith sustains us and we in turn must sustain it. Reflect on the many wonderful advances of mankind made possible through the grace of God through His Church - scientific discoveries, educational systems, hospitals and charities that care for people in need. Find hope in knowing that Our Lord has done all this to provide for us, and return to Him a sacrificial gift that will enable His work to continue.

Only you can make this possible. Please accept my grateful thanks for your generosity in supporting the Church in the Archdiocese of Miami. There is no greater feeling of satisfaction than when we open our hearts generously to serve one another. It should be our goal as Catholics to make that generosity of spirit a daily experience. I know that I can count on you as I invite you to take on this charitable responsibility.

May the Lord continue to bless you and your loved ones abundantly. With personal good wishes, I am

Sincerely in the Lord,

Most Reverend John C. Favalora
Archbishop of Miami