Serving God in all things through the Holy Spirit!
History
The roots of our Catholic faith here in Vermont lie in our noteworthy history. When we read about the remarkable men and women who prepared the soil and planted the seeds of our faith, we realize that the Holy Spirit has been at work from the beginning. One significant signpost in that history was the official establishment of our Diocese, when Bishop DeGoesbriand was appointed the first bishop of Burlington in 1853. We look back at that year with great pride, and in that memory we discover our roots and we find our hope for the future.
Bishop’s Circle
Today this same Spirit continues to work in our Diocese as we reach out beyond our church walls to go out and spread the Good News. Those in the Bishop’s circle have been moved to make gifts of $3,000 or more in support of that mission. This generous level of giving has allowed the Diocese to create new initiatives that will revitalize the Church while sustaining many essential ministries. The Bishop’s Circle is the core group of men and women vital to our future and trusted advisors to the Bishop with opportunities to share input and meet with Bishop Coyne.
1853 Society
The 1853 society was established to honor our roots in Vermont and the spark of the Holy Spirit that ignited the establishment our diocese in 1853. Members of the 1853 Society give a generous donation of $1,853 or more and strengthen the mission of the Catholic Church in Vermont. This group has opportunities to gather together throughout the year and receive updates from Bishop Coyne.
DeGoesbriand Circle
Many in the DeGoesbriand Circle have been made gifts of $1,000 or more. Bishop Louis deGoesbriand was the first bishop of Burlington and established our diocese in 1853 using his own wealth and dying penniless after growing the diocese from a few churches and pastors to many. This society honors deGoesbriand’s charitable nature and dedication to the mission. This group has opportunities to gather together throughout the year and receive updates from Bishop Coyne.
Founders Society
Founders Society members are those faithful donors who have consistently given seven or more years to build a solid foundation for the Catholic Church to grow in Vermont. These lifetime donors give at many different levels and ensure the mission of the Church continues to thrive in every community.
Become a Member
Members of the various Giving Societies have opportunities to gather throughout the year for fellowship and briefings on the impact their support has had in the Diocese of Burlington. Audiences with the bishop and detailed communication throughout the year ensures the societies’ bonds are woven within the Kingdom of God as it expands within the State of Vermont.
If you are interested in joining or want to find out more about the mission and benefits of giving societies, contact the Office of Development and Communication today.