The Foundation kicked off the 2020 Progress Catholic Ministry Appeal on January 14 at St. Pius X Parish. Friar Mario Serrano, OFM, Conv. who leads UTEP’s Catholic Campus Ministry blessed the meal. Ministries supported by Progress were in attendance along with 86 parishioners, parish secretaries, clergy, and Progress leaders representing 26 parishes. Bishop Mark closed the event with a special prayer and blessing.

Sixteen parishes exceeded their Progress goal and qualified for Parish Share—parishes received 50% of the total funds raised after 100% of the Progress goal was met in 2019—including Blessed Sacrament, Corpus Christi Monastery, Our Lady of Miracles—Sierra Blanca, Queen of Peace, San Antonio de Padua, San Judas Tadeo, St. Gertrude—Grandfalls, St. Mary’s—Marfa, and St. Patrick Cathedral.

The Foundation extends its deepest gratitude for the tremendous support given to Progress 2019. $1,936,767 was pledged to the campaign and more than $1.5 million has been received in payments to date. The Progress 2020 Catholic Ministry Appeal commitment weekends will be conducted at diocesan parishes on February 1 & 2 and 8 & 9.

Progress supports 15 diocesan ministries that work to heal the broken, comfort the troubled, support those in great need and give a word of encouragement during tough times. Progress also contributes to the education and formation of seminarians, the future leadership of the Diocese of El Paso. Money raised through the Progress Appeal represents nearly 40% of all operating funds ** ** supporting the pastoral, spiritual, educational, and human service programs that benefit thousands of individuals throughout the 10 counties of the Diocese of El Paso. Thank you for the impact you make on our diocesan communities.

For more information about Progress 2020, the Catholic Ministry Appeal, please contact Progress Coordinator Martha Marmolejo directly at mmarmolejo@elpasodiocese.org. or 915-872-8412 or visit 2020Progress.org.