A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
LOOK TO WHAT IS UNSEEN WHICH IS ETERNAL
Dear Brothers & Sisters In Christ, As we monitor the turn of events throughout the world we are reminded of our common humanity. We are encouraged to practice social distancing although we know we are one family of God and remain close spiritually through this belief. Therefore, we are not discouraged, rather, although our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to what is seen but to what is unseen; for what is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal. 2nd Corinthians 4 16:18 Our team is moving forward, cautiously and prayerfully, with what God has put before us. Day by day we look for efficient ways to serve you during this time. The well-being of our brothers and sisters and all those you love are our utmost concern – from our pastors, chancery and community partners, donors, board, staff and all those in need in Central Florida. We are committed to collaborating on what is best for each circumstance. For those considering moving funds into our endowment and reserve funds, due to current market volatility, we encourage prudence as we wait to see more stabilization in the market. We are thankful for the gifts God has provided us to effectively and prudently steward the resources entrusted to us for the benefit of His people. Our board-approved investment policy, our oversight governance structure and our investment advisors help us attain our long-term objectives even in times of uncertainty. We are providing an update from our advisors, Concord Advisory Group, who share our concerns. Their update provides insight from their research and our long-term horizon outlook. Please contact Susan Hunt at shunt@cfocf.org who can advise on how to prepare for the transfer of funds at a later date when market conditions are more suitable. For those who are at-risk during this time and were attending Mass through live stream, we honor your precaution. In cooperation with the effort to contain the spread of the virus our Bishop has suspended the celebration of Mass in our churches. As we all transition to this we share resources for remaining in prayer and near to God. Please remember to continue your financial support of the work of the church. You can contact your parish office to find out if they have an online giving option and set up your offerings to be given online. For your convenience, our team has developed a webpage which will provide an opportunity to give to any parish and especially those who do not have an online giving option. Or you can mail a check to your parish. Thank you for your continued charity which binds our faith community as we promote the Gospel and build His Kingdom. We find that donors are generous in our community and we are grateful. There is a great need for God’s people to release His resources into the world for the benefit of our ministries that serve and address the needs in our Central Florida community. For those able to share their blessings we encourage charity. Please contact Madelyn Weed at mweed@cfocf.org for questions you have about charitable giving at this time. We remember that these times are temporary. Our team is following the guidelines of the CDC to ensure well-being while we remain available to serve. Some of our upcoming educational seminars and series are being postponed as a cautionary measure to protect our friends and family of God – The Legacy Planning Seminar at Blessed Trinity, Ocala on March 25 and The Stewardship Matters Series at Bishop Moore Catholic on April 3 . We look forward to re-scheduling and having the opportunity to be in person with you again. During this time of darkness we are called to be a light. Pray for those who are ill, our medical professionals and the scientists working to create vaccines and cures. Remember many will feel extra lonely during these times of self-quarantine, postponed events and streamed Masses. Reach out to family, friends and neighbors through phone calls, emails, skype and social media. “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” 1 Cor. 16:13 Stay informed from credible and reliable sources such as the Florida State Health Department and the CDC. Monitor updates for Mass, Sacraments and ministries in the Diocese of Orlando. You and your loved ones remain in our prayers. May we all rest in the peace which comes from knowing we are in His hands. Sincerely yours in Christ, Kimberlee Riley
President and CEO The Catholic Foundation of Central Florida
Secretariat of Stewardship and Discipleship Diocese of Orlando
50 E. Robinson St., Orlando, FL 32801 P.O. Box 4905 Orlando, Florida 32802 Tel: 407.246.4889 tel:4072464889
https://www.orlandodiocese.org/under-your-protection-we-seek-refuge-holy-mother-of-god/