PALM BEACH GARDENS | The 2025 Diocesan Services Appeal kicks off this month to support the numerous essential programs and ministries in the Diocese of Palm Beach. Many parishes will host presentations at Masses on the importance of funding the DSA in the coming weeks.
This year’s theme is “Hope does not disappoint,” from Romans 5:5, which is tied to the 2025 Jubilee Year, also known as the Year of Hope. “Announced by Pope Francis, the Jubilee Year is intended to be a time of hope for the world, as well as an opportunity to re-establish relationships with God, others and creation,” said Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito in a letter going out this month to past DSA supporters.
“Your support of the DSA, through prayer and financial assistance, allows our offices and ministries to fulfill the Diocese’s mission and embrace the promise of hope we are given each day. Together, as 54 parishes and missions within five counties, we are joined together as one committed Diocese,” his letter says.
There are eight main programs that the DSA supports throughout the diocese: Catholic Charities; vocations, diaconate formation and clergy support; Catholic education; cultural ministries; communications; marriage, family life, faith formation and youth ministry; development and resources; and diocesan support. Within each of those categories are projects that help local individuals and families, such as marriage preparation and counseling, outreach to the homeless, prison ministry and aid to pregnant women in crisis.
“It has been a blessing to see how the DSA funds support those within our five-county area,” said Jennifer Trefelner, director of communications and development for the diocese. “The programs and ministries that the appeal supports are vital to the mission of our diocese and those we serve. One of my favorite elements of this job is reading the notes and messages from the beneficiaries of our services. It is truly heartwarming and affirming.”
The money donated to the DSA stays in the diocese and supports programs in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee and Indian River counties. The funds provide a wide range of essential religious, charitable and educational programs that benefit all ages in the region.
“The DSA is unique in that it is the umbrella that supports all of the parishes and missions, in addition to the diocese as a whole,” Trefelner said. “It reminds us that we are all part of one Catholic family and unites our diverse counties through one strong vision.
“I thank our donors in advance for their generous support. The philanthropy that is shown and the heartfelt donations are such a blessing to our diocese and parishes,” she said. “We pray for this campaign and the donors on a regular basis, especially that they feel appreciated and acknowledged. Continuing with our initiative begun in 2023, as a small token of our appreciation, all DSA donors will have the opportunity to receive a printed copy of the Florida Catholic once a month and/or receive the digital copy of the Florida Catholic on a weekly basis.”
There are multiple ways to contribute to the Diocesan Services Appeal, including:
- Online at https://www.diocesepb.org/ministriesoffices/offices/development/diocesan-services-appeal/.
- By check, payable to Diocese of Palm Beach-DSA, and sent by mail to Diocesan Services Appeal, 9995 N. Military Trail, P.O. Box 109650, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410-9650.
Many companies will match the charitable gifts of their employees as a benefit of their employment, which is an excellent way to double and sometimes triple the impact of your personal donation. Check with your employer or human resources department to see if they have a matching gift program.
Donors can become a DSA Partner, which are those donors who exemplify leadership generosity by donating or pledging $1,000 or more. The DSA Partner categories include gifts or pledges of $2,500, Circle of Faith; $5,000, Circle of Hope; $10,000, Circle of Charity; and $25,000, Circle of Joy.
For more information about the DSA or any other programs, visit the diocesan website at www.diocesepb.org/dsa-home. Jennifer Trefelner is available to answer general DSA questions at 561-775-9529 or jtrefelner@diocesepb.org.
