The 2026 Annual Catholic Appeal invites us to take part in a shared mission rooted in love and sustained by joy. Through the ministries supported by the Appeal, our local Church brings Christ’s love to those in need, strengthens faith in our parishes, and nurtures joy across every stage of life. When we give together, love takes action and joy endures—uniting us in hope, service, and faith..
50% of the funds collected over goal are returned for repair/restoration projects, new areas of growth or ministry development, as well as other needs.

Your gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal strengthens the Church by supporting priests, deacons, and seminarians who faithfully serve our parishes and nurture the sacramental life of our communities. Through the Appeal, we accompany active and retired priests, permanent deacons, and those preparing for ordained ministry—ensuring that Christ’s love and joy continue to be present in the life of our Church.
Your generosity also provides care for retired priests, many of whom continue to serve in meaningful ways. Housing and support are provided through Villa Vianney in Lawrenceville and The Villa at St. Denis in Manasquan, ensuring these devoted shepherds can live with dignity and peace.
Evangelization*
Evangelization is the primary mission of the Church. Diocesan and parish initiatives provide opportunities to grow in faith and into intimate union with God. An expansive array of ministry programs make the spiritual works of mercy a reality for families at all stages of life in the parishes and on a diocesan level.
Our outreach for youth, young adults, the aging, family life, campus life and ministry among Catholics enrich the everyday and spiritual lives of over 640,000 parishioners.
Your support makes it possible for the Diocese to prepare leaders at the parish level who teach over 32,700 Religious Education students each year and bring hundreds of men and women annually into full-initiation within the Catholic Faith.
Catholic schools are the greatest hope for the future of our Church. Donations to the ACA help to ensure that curriculum and performance standards and development of educators continue at high levels within 25 elementary schools and 5 high schools. Last year reaching out to more than 90,000 alumni increased that support to these institutions.
Through your support of the Annual Catholic Appeal, you partner with the Diocese and your parish to make the corporal works of mercy tangible for people who are most in need through: Diocesan Parish Counseling Services, Parish Emergency Assistance Program, Diocesan Social Service Workshops, Home Health Nursing Program and Emergency Assistance.
Diocesan communication efforts through the diocesan website, radio and TV, social media and The Monitor Magazine reach out to all 640,000 parishioners in the Diocese of Trenton, as well as those who are seeking to know more about the Catholic Church. Communications is responsible for the following areas:
Updated on January 19, 2026