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Decree Instituting Diocesan Instruction on Transparency in Fundraising
Click here to read the Instruction on Transparency in Fundraising policy.
According to canon 222 §1 of the Code of Canon Law, “the Christian faithful are obliged to assist with the needs of the Church so that the Church has what is necessary for divine worship, for the works of the apostolate and of charity, and for the decent support of ministers.” As a part of this obligation they possess “the right to donate temporal goods for the benefit of the Church” (canon 1261).
In addition to their regular tithing, the Christian faithful also give generously in response to fundraisers by, or on behalf of, Catholic groups and institutions. According to the Code of Canon Law and the Complementary Norm for canon 1262, implemented by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on 15 August 2007, it is my role as Bishop of Jefferson City to exercise vigilance over fundraising that occurs within the territory entrusted to my care. Seeing that the law has not, up to this time, been routinely enforced, I now wish to present this Instruction on Transparency in Fundraising. Having consulted the Diocesan Finance Council, the Presbyteral Council, the Diocesan Pastoral Council, the Superintendent of Schools, the Director of Stewardship, the Chancellor, and other concerned parties in according with canon 50, I believe this instruction will give clear guidance on how fundraising efforts are to be conducted within the Diocese of Jefferson City.
I therefore,
DECREE
that this instruction shall be promulgated by being published on the diocesan website. This instruction shall take effect 1 January 2024, all things to the contrary notwithstanding. I furthermore order that a copy of this policy be sent to all concerned parties.
Given at the Chancery on the 24th day of August in the Year of Our Lord 2023.
