Here on Long Island, one of the best opportunities we have to follow the Lord's command to love one another is by participating in the Catholic Ministries Appeal ("CMA").  The CMA allows the 133 parishes in Nassau and Suffolk to "join forces" in supporting the dozens of ministries and organizations in our Diocese.  Those ministries (like Catholic Charities, Talbot House, and St. Joseph's Seminary) have a direct impact on the lives of our sisters and brothers--particularly those in real need.  

Each year, more than 600,000 men, women, and children receive direct assistance from the monies donated to the Appeal.  Among them you might find a senior in need of affordable housing, or a young person looking for support in his or her recovery from addiction, or a seminarian preparing for ordination to the priesthood.  

Please remember that the CMA is also a tremendous help to our parish.  In 2025, we reached almost 103% of our goal, and because of all that generous giving, St. Lawrence will receive a rebate of $19,950.00.  That rebate will be a meaningful help in paying our bills, meeting payroll, maintaining our buildings and grounds, and exploring new avenues for ministry and service right here at home. 

The 2026 Catholic Ministries Appeal is in progress, and runs through the end of December.  Our parish goal is $90,000.  You can donate at any time by going to the secure link at www.catholicministriesappeal.org  or calling (516) 678-5800 x 296.  To all our parishioners who contributed last year, thank you for touching so many lives, and supporting St. Lawrence at the same time!  If you weren't able to participate last year, would you please consider offering a gift this year?  No contribution is too small, and every gift makes a difference.  Thank you so much!

Fr. Brian

And please note:  100% of every dollar raised for the CMA is restricted to fund the objectives, programs, and mission supported by the Catholic Ministries Appeal.