#iGiveCatholic: A beacon of global generosity and faith

By Inés San Martín

As the season of giving approaches, the US Catholic Church's annual giving day, #iGiveCatholic, is set to make a groundbreaking stride.

This year, for the first time, The Pontifical Mission Societies USA will participate in the initiative, marking an expansion of #iGiveCatholic's impact from a national to a global scale.

Launched in 2015 in the Archdiocese of New Orleans under the leadership of Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond, #iGiveCatholic has grown into a national crowdfunding movement that unites the Catholic community in a celebration of faith and generosity. It is always held on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, held this year on 23 November.

This year, the initiative is poised to extend its reach beyond the United States, connecting American Catholic donors with the global Church, particularly in mission territories across Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Latin America.

A moment of joy and responsibility

Josephine Everly, co-founder of #iGiveCatholic and currently the Vice President for Advancement for The Pontifical Mission Societies, expressed her gratitude for this new chapter.

"As we participate in #iGiveCatholic for the first time, it's a moment of profound joy and responsibility," she said. "This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our mission to support the Holy Father’s missions globally."

The participation of The Pontifical Mission Societies in #iGiveCatholic represents a new chapter in global Catholic philanthropy, Ms. Everly said.

“It's deeply gratifying to witness an idea that began within the Archdiocese of New Orleans evolve into a powerful tool for international solidarity and support,” she said. “This year, as we join this movement, we are not just raising funds; we are fostering a tangible connection between the faithful in the United States and the vibrant, diverse communities served by the Pope's Missions. Every contribution is a step towards a more united and impactful global Church.”

Global goals

The 2023 #iGiveCatholic campaign, under the leadership of its National Director, Lisa Schillace, aims to build on the success of previous years.

In 2022, the campaign raised over US$18.5 million, with contributions from 42,285 donors across 50 states and 19 countries. Beneficiaries included over 2,900 Catholic parishes, schools, and ministries.

The participation of The Pontifical Mission Societies is about more than fundraising. The goal is to create awareness among American Catholics that they are part of a universal network of prayer and almsgiving to assist those just coming to know Christ.

"Every contribution is a step towards a more united and impactful global Church," Ms. Everly added.

The #iGiveCatholic advanced giving phase has launched and offers supporters the opportunity to schedule their giving ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. Donations can be made online at the following link: https://tpms.igivecatholic.org/.