In September of 1999, I was installed as the Twelfth Bishop of the Diocese of Charleston. As Bishop, I have had the opportunity to travel throughout our diocese, meet thousands of our diocesan families and witness the strength of their faith. Since being ordained a priest in 1970, I have seen many changes in our society and Church throughout the world. I have seen the hard work and perseverance of so many of our parishes to build strong Catholic foundations in their ministries, churches and schools.

What follows is a plan to prepare our diocese to respond to the challenges of this new century. This plan is filled with hope and optimism and will require sacrifice from us all. We call this undertaking Our Heritage, Our Hope, and we believe its time has come. This title is the same title as our Diocesan Synod that took place in 1995. Many of the case elements and ministries in this campaign were closely studied and evaluated during the Synod. Our goal is to raise $32,000,000 to address some of the most pressing needs in our church throughout South Carolina.

I am asking every Catholic in the diocese, starting with me and my fellow priests, to make a substantial sacrifice. We are a stewardship diocese and encourage parishioners to give 5% of their income to the parish, 1% to the Bishop’s Stewardship Appeal and 4% to other charities. My hope is that our people will commit the greater portion of the “4% to other charities” to the Our Heritage, Our Hope Campaign for the next four years.

I ask you to prayerfully reflect on all the blessings God has bestowed upon you. Then, in the spirit of Christian stewardship, make a gift that reflects your gratitude for all of God’s blessings. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Robert J. Baker
Bishop of Charleston