Our Lord Jesus said: "I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me . . . " (John 17:20).  Your generous, sacrificial gift to this year's Appeal you will help all of us to come together as believers, in one Church, to further our work in this world.

Last year's Appeal realized a 50% increase over the previous year.  Building on our accomplishment and the feedback received from the pastors and parishioners, we will continue the parish rebate program.  Parishes will receive 50% of what is raised over their parish goal.  For Example, if the parish goal is $6,000 and $8,000 is raised, the parish rebate is $1,000.

This year we plan to support: Special Youth Projects, Religious Education, Parish & Mission Support, Clergy Formation & Education, and Eparchial Charities.

These programs are the essence of what our Diocese provides for her parishioners throughout this country and beyond.  The Melkite Diocesan Appeal will allow the Diocese to fund projects that impact thousands of families who believe in Him.

I hope you will be able to invest in the future of the Melkite community in America.  To achieve success, 100% participation is essential - and your gift is extremely important.

I ask you to please give prayerful consideration to supporting the programs of this Appeal.  Let the gift come from your heart and be a way to thanking God for his abundant blessings to your and your family.

May God, our loving Father, bless you and keep you in the palm of His Hand.

Yours servant in the Lord.

+John A. Elya

Eparch of Newton

I wish to contribute to the Melkite Diocesan Appeal 2002

Total Pledge $_______ Paid in this envelope $_________ Balance $__________

Paid by: Check ___(enclosed)    Credit Card: VISA___ MasterCard____ 

Account Number ________________

Expiration Date _________________

Signature ______________________

Name: ________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________

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Thank You and God Bless