Welcome and thank you for your interest in the 2009 Archbishop’s Call to Share. During his recent Apostolic visit to the United States Pope Benedict XVI spoke eloquently of the essence and enduring spirit that is the virtue of Hope, relating that “…hope is a gift that changes the life of those who receive it...” As your shepherd, it is so deeply gratifying to see that the countless good works funded by Archbishop’s Call to Share (ACTS) each year bring life and meaning to the Holy Father’s words, making hope real and visible to thousands of people who suffer from the despair of being alienated, unloved or forgotten. It seems fitting that the theme chosen to introduce the 2009 ACTS is “HOPE,” for it is hope, sustained by our faith in God, that makes our journey to salvation a road that all may walk. The hope offered by the ministries, programs and services that are supported by ACTS takes many forms. Your generosity helps to prepare our future priests, care for our retired priests, protect and defend the rights of the unborn, strengthen family life, ensure excellent academic and spiritual formation in our schools and offer the best of catechetical formation in our parishes. The faith in action page on this website explains in greater detail how your financial pledge will continue to make Christ’s presence known throughout our 21 counties where the needs are the greatest, especially to the poor, the troubled and the most vulnerable. As we reflect upon our past and ponder the future, I pray that, during these economically challenging times, you will take heart in the words of our Holy Father by reaching out to your brothers and sisters in Christ and help to deliver the promise of hope in tangible ways. We know the need has increased for scholarships for Catholic schools and other forms of assistance for those suffering from the effects of the economic downturn. Those of us who continue to be financially blessed will have to make an even greater sacrificial gift in order to meet the expanding needs. May our loving God, who does not even let the slightest kindness offered in His name pass unrewarded, bless you and those you hold dear to you. With gratitude for your love for Jesus and His Church, I remain, Sincerely yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

Click to view the 2009 ACTS video

Click to hear the 2009 ACTS homily