Dear Catholic Charities USA Members and Friends,

Memories of Harriet Tubman tell of her extreme confidence that God was with her, helping her to free hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad. Harriet spent over ten years on the Railroad and she claimed she “never lost a passenger.” It seems fitting that we gather to Cross the Rivers of Freedom at this year’s Catholic Charities USA Annual Gathering in Cincinnati, home of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

This outstanding conference is sure to be a truly exceptional experience. We will continue our policy paper session discussion of the document “Poverty in America: A Threat to the Common Good,” looking at this complex issue specifically through the lens of race and inclusion. And in keeping with our tradition, we will honor Dr. Norman C. Francis, president of Xavier University, New Orleans, with the 2007 Vision Award; recognize three amazing programs within our network that demonstrate excellence in the support of families and communities by presenting each with the Annie E. Casey Foundation Family Strengthening Award; and acknowledge our National Volunteer of the Year and Bishop Sullivan Award recipients.

You will also have the opportunity to experience the wonderful exhibits at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center during the gala event on Saturday night. As the the Center’s Web site so eloquently puts it, “Let the stories of the past inspire action for today.”

Please take a moment to look carefully at the fantastic program we have put together and make plans to attend our Annual Gathering in Cincinnati. Join me and share the experience of Crossing the Rivers of Freedom together.

Sincerely,

Rev. Larry J. Snyder
President, Catholic Charities USA

Read welcome letters from the Archbishop of Cincinnati, Most Reverend Daniel Pilarczyk and the Bishop of Covington, Most Reverend Roger J. Foys, D.D.