A Note from Father Wall

Fr. Jack Wall
President, Catholic Extension

This issue of Extension arrives during a season deemed the "busiest time of the year." Starting with Thanksgiving and ending with the celebration of Christmas, we are often in a frenzy with all that we are asked and invited to do. Yet in the time of Advent, I find myself drawn to ponder the person of Mary quietly expecting her newborn child. In her, in the womb of this young woman, in the most unlikely of places, in the most challenging of circumstances, the Savior of the World waits to be born. So, too, this divine mystery of God's incarnate love waits to be born anew in our own hearts, in our own land and among our own people! And I gratefully ponder the way you are the shepherds of this hope-filled birth through your support of Catholic Extension.

During this season of giving, I am continuously energized by the faith I have witnessed in you, our donors. Your financial gifts and prayers help Catholic Extension breathe new life and build faith in communities across America, transforming the lives and hearts of people in powerful, Spirit-led ways. In this issue, we present our annual Christmas Wish List - a collection of 25 specific ways you can support Catholic communities across the mission dioceses. This Wish List has become a Christmas tradition of charitable giving for so many of our donors, and they've been kind enough to share their traditions with us. One couple in Virginia reviews the Wish List every year over a cup of coffee. A Chicago donor who lived through the Depression has a real heart for supporting basic needs like fuel. Even the youngest generation experiences that it is better to give than to receive - a grandmother in Michigan encourages her grandchildren to choose the wishes that she will grant on their behalf each year.

In addition to the Christmas Wish List, this issue of Extension celebrates Sister Gabriella Williams, winner of the Lumen Christi Award, for bringing the light of Christ to field workers in California; and Catholic Extension Board Member Bishop Ricardo Ramírez of the Diocese of Las Cruces. On the occasion of his 75th birthday, Bishop Ramírez shared his joy in serving the church and witnessing its growth during his time as bishop. "I am amazed, deeply amazed, by the generosity that continues in our church," he said. I could not agree more!

God Bless you this Advent!

Rev. John J. Wall
President, Catholic Extension