Photo by Jackie Holcombe

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Peace and All Good!

I continue to be inspired by the faith, generosity, and devotion of the people of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. Across north and central Georgia, our Catholic community is growing in remarkable ways through vibrant parishes, strong participation in the sacraments, flourishing ministries and increasing vocations to the priesthood and religious life. At the same time, many people in our communities are searching for hope, purpose and a deeper relationship with God. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called not only to serve those already within our Church, but also to reach those who have not yet encountered God’s love.

During my visits to parishes across our great diocese, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary vitality of our local Church. I have celebrated Mass in overflowing churches, met young families seeking to pass on their faith, spoken with college students searching for deeper meaning and purpose and been inspired by the joyful witness of those discerning vocations to the priesthood and religious life. I have also encountered many individuals who feel isolated, disconnected or uncertain about their place within the Church. These experiences have strengthened my conviction that we must continue investing in the mission Christ has entrusted to us and create new opportunities for every person to encounter His love and mercy.

It is in this spirit that I am pleased to announce Rooted in Christ—Growing in Faith, the first archdiocesan wide campaign in nearly 30 years. Following years of prayer, consultation and planning, this effort reflects a bold vision for the future of our local Church. While the campaign will provide important financial resources, its true purpose is much greater: strengthening our mission to proclaim the Gospel, form disciples, serve those in need and ensure that the Catholic faith continues to flourish for generations to come.

The title of this initiative is rooted in the words of Jesus: “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit” (Jn 15:5). Our hope is that every member of the archdiocese will become more deeply rooted in Christ so that together we may grow in faith and bear lasting fruit through discipleship, service, and evangelization.

This campaign is centered on three priorities: Investing in Parishes and Clergy, Forming Missionary Disciples and Uplifting Vulnerable Neighbors. Through these efforts, we will strengthen growing parishes, support the formation and well-being of our clergy, nurture families and young people in the faith, expand campus ministry, and assist those experiencing poverty, hunger, homelessness, mental health challenges and other hardships. A Mission Expansion Fund will also help address the needs of parishes serving rapidly growing Catholic communities throughout our archdiocese.

At the heart of this campaign is a commitment to stewardship. Everything we have is a gift from God, entrusted to us for his glory and the service of others. The faithful of the Archdiocese of Atlanta have always responded generously when called upon to advance the mission of the Church, and I invite you to prayerfully consider how God may be calling you to participate in this historic effort.

It is important to note that Rooted in Christ—Growing in Faith is distinct from the Archbishop’s Annual Appeal. While the Annual Appeal supports the ongoing ministries and services of our archdiocese, this campaign will provide transformational investments that strengthen our Church for the future.

As we embark on this journey together, I ask for your prayers, participation, and continued commitment to the mission of Christ. Rooted in Him and growing in faith, we can build an even stronger Church, deepen our witness to the Gospel, and help future generations encounter the saving love of Jesus Christ.

May God bless you and your families, and may Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Patroness of the Archdiocese of Atlanta, intercede for us always.

In Christ,
Most Reverend Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv.
Archbishop of Atlanta