Since 1947, Catholic Charities has been living the Gospel message through its programs and services. Today, we are working harder than ever to ensure that those in need within the Arlington Diocese are loved and cared for.

Pope Benedict's encyclical, "Deus Caritas Est" ("God Is Love"), reminds all Christians and people of faith that we must reach out to those who have less than we do. A Christian cannot stand on the side-lines when a brother or sister calls out for help. Each of us has the capacity to love and bring hope into the world. This is the life every Christian must live.

In a special way, Catholic Charities belongs to every Catholic within the Arlington Diocese. It must be close to our hearts and never separated from the life of the Church. As Pope Benedict declared in "Deus Caritas Est," charity is as essential to the Church as the Word and the sacraments. One cannot exist without the other. Though the Word and the sacraments lie at the heart of the Church, charity is its soul.

As we go forward, let us recall Christ's words: "Without me, you can do nothing" (John 15:5). I urge you to join us as we renew our pledge to serve the Church through Catholic Charities.

Stephen Luteran
Executive Director
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington