The Storm at Sea occurs in each of the Gospels—that perilous moment when the Apostles are terrified by the wind and the waves until Jesus calms the tempest and encourages them to not be afraid. This Scripture passage gives us hope and confidence in the midst of every challenge and sorrow.

With this image in mind and as the Diocese of Madison prepares for a time of visionary change and spiritual transformation, we have chosen for our 2023 Annual Catholic Appeal (ACA) theme: “Trust in the Lord with all Your Heart.”

Taken from Proverbs 2:3, this biblical verse reminds us that God indeed holds us in His Heart and that we need to place our trust in Him, especially in times of difficulty and change.

Whenever people are in need, they often look to the Church for comfort and assistance. Like the Apostle’s boat, a place of refuge, protected and guided by the Lord’s hand, the many programs, resources and services that the Diocese sponsors offer hope, help and healing in countless ways. In all that we do, the Gospel transforms, the sacraments sanctify and our charity blesses.