Share in the Spirit – Diocese of Wilmington

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we begin a new school year, I am reminded of the tremendous gift of Catholic education. Our schools are not just places of learning; they are communities of faith where our children grow in knowledge, wisdom, and love for God. Each day, our dedicated teachers and staff work to nurture our students’ minds and hearts, preparing them to achieve great things and to serve the world as disciples of Christ.

At the same time, in addition to the many sacrifices that families make in order to provide their children with a Catholic education, it is only going to be possible because of the generosity and financial support of people such as yourself.

That is why I am pleased to announce the Share in the Spirit tuition assistance campaign. This campaign is a powerful expression of our Catholic community’s spirit of sharing and solidarity. It is not just an opportunity for each of us to reach out and support one another; your active participation ensures that every child who desires a Catholic education can receive it, regardless of financial circumstances.

On the weekend of September 21-22, we will hold a special collection in our parishes for the Share in the Spirit campaign. I ask you to prayerfully consider making a donation during this collection. Your generosity will bridge the gap for families who need assistance, making Catholic education a reality for more children in our Diocese. Your contribution will directly impact the lives of these children, giving them the gift of a Catholic education.

Our Catholic school students achieve great things, and their talents are displayed in this campaign. Some of our high school students have written articles, created videos, and designed posters to help promote Share in the Spirit. Their efforts, along with those of younger students who are raising funds through bake sales, dress-down days, and other school collections, are a testament to the spirit of community that this campaign embodies. Students and families are helping other students and families—this is what it means to share in the spirit, honestly.

Through the success of last year’s campaign and the Vision for the Future funds, we were able to award over $1.2 million in scholarships. As we look ahead to the coming year and ever-increasing financial needs (the calculated needs of those who have applied for assistance is over $7 million), we are looking to build on yesterday’s successes and continue to grow in our ability to provide a Catholic education for our young people.

Together, let us ensure that every child in our Diocese has the opportunity to benefit from the life-changing experience of a Catholic education. I thank you in advance for your continued support. Your past contributions have made a significant difference, and I am deeply grateful for your ongoing commitment to this cause. I pray that God blesses you and your families for your kindness and compassion.

Sincerely and gratefully in Christ,

Most Reverend William E. Koenig, D.D.
Bishop of Wilmington

What is the Share in the Spirit Campaign?

Share in the Spirit is an annual collection for tuition assistance to Catholic schools in the Diocese of Wilmington. This special collection is conducted at all Masses during the fourth weekend of September. In addition, invitations to participate in this fundraising effort are mailed and offered online.

This year, the collection will take place on September 21 and 22, 2024. The funds raised from this collection are also combined with funds from the diocese’s Vision for the Future of Education Trust to assist elementary and secondary school students whose families struggle to afford the total cost of tuition.

Every single family who receives tuition assistance pays for a portion of their child’s tuition. Your participation in this campaign helps to support hard-working families to make the dream of a Catholic education a reality.

What is the need?

Each year, the applications we receive for tuition assistance far outweigh the level of support we can provide.

For example: Of the nearly 1,200 applications, FACTS, an independent agent that analyzes the financial need of each applicant, determined that more than $7 million would be required to fulfill the maximum demand of every family qualified. And, every year, this number increases.

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and donors like you, this campaign continues to grow and impact lives. For this 2024-2025 school year – we have provided $1,200,000 in scholarships to 765 students; an increase of 170 students will be assisted over last year.

However, our resources are limited! The support we provide for the 2025-2026 school year only represents approximately 17% of the calculated need.

Why is Catholic Education worth the investment?

Our Catholic schools develop individuals who will emerge as leaders in our communities and world.

Catholic schools provide smaller class sizes, taught by passionate and committed teachers. Our students receive an education that challenges the intellectual and nurtures the spiritual, deep-rooted in our faith. An education that emphasizes service to others every day. Catholic schools develop students who emerge as leaders who promote, sustain, and inspire our world into the future.

Vision for a Future Sponsorship Program

Sponsor a Student

The Catholic Diocese of Wilmington believes that all children who desire to attend a Catholic school should be allowed to do so, regardless of their family’s financial position. Unfortunately, many children cannot remain in our Catholic schools yearly because tuition expenses have grown beyond their family’s reach. The Diocese has established a Vision for the Future Sponsorship Program that matches donors with students who need tuition assistance. This program complements the Share in the Spirit collection and the Diocese’s Vision for the Future Education Trust.

You can support an elementary school student in need with an annual contribution of $2,500 or more. Your sponsorship will be designated to a K-8 student whose family qualifies for tuition assistance based on the financial evaluation. Your sponsorship is a special way to provide an education focused on academic rigor and student achievement in an atmosphere of deep faith and spirituality.

We recently developed an all-new “Sustainers Program.” If you are so blessed, your sponsorship donation will have an impact today and into the future! See below for details.

Your investment in Catholic education will make a difference in the life of Catholic school student, their family, and the community. When you sponsor a Catholic school student, you are helping to instill in them self-discipline, personal integrity, and moral values that prepare them to become leaders committed to social responsibility and civic duty.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact Sheila O’Hagan McGirl, Development Director, at sheilamcgirl@cdow.org or (302)573-3121.

Sponsorship Levels

$2,500 – $4,999	Seraphim (Sponsor Level)
$5,000 – $9,999	Angelic Benefactor (Sponsor Level)
$10,000 +	Angelic Founder (Sponsor Level)

Share in the Spirit Sustainers Program

Level	Total	Amortized
Platinum	$100,000	$10,000 per year for 10 years $4,000 yearly scholarship plus $ 6,000 Vision for the Future Endowment Fund
Gold	$75,000	$7,500 per year for 10 years $3,000 yearly scholarship plus $ 4,500 Vision for the Future Endowment Fund
Silver	$50,000	$5,000 per year for 10 years $2,000 yearly scholarship plus $ 3,000 Vision for the Future Endowment Fund
Bronze	$25,000	$2,500 per year for 10 years $1,000 yearly scholarship plus $ 1,500 Vision for the Future Endowment Fund

Donate Today

Gifts to the Share in the Spirit will be acknowledged by Bishop Koenig and are tax deductible as provided by law.
All funds raised through the collection are used exclusively to support tuition assistance.

Pledging

You may make a pledge and pay in monthly installments. A monthly reminder statement will be sent until your gift is fulfilled.

One-Time Gift

You may use a visa debit/credit card or bank account. You can make an online pledge, or a one-time gift, by clicking here. You could also donate by mailing a check directly to the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington.

Matching Gifts

Many companies provide a Matching Gift Program for their current and retired employees to promote charitable giving. Please contact your company’s Human Resource Department to determine if a matching gift program is available.

Gifts of Securities

If you own securities that have appreciated in value, they can be given to the collection and their full market value becomes a tax deductible gift. Contact the diocesan Development Office at 302-573-3121 for more details.

Note: Instructions may vary by transaction type, i.e. mutual fund, shares held in an investment fund or registered with Computershare Investor Services. Be sure to contact the Development Office to ensure proper transfer of funds and appropriate credit to you as the donor.

Online Bill Pay

If you utilize this electronic technique to pay bills, simply add the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington Share in the Spirit as a recurring payee. Payments should be mailed to:

Share in the Spirit
Catholic Diocese of Wilmington
P. O. Box 2030
Wilmington, DE 19899-2030

Donate using PayPal

You can donate through PayPal by clicking here. (Note: Debit/Credit card is an available option; however, the transaction is processed through PayPal.)

Donate Today

Testimonials & Thank You

A Wounded Warrior Turned Helpful Hero: A Story of an Ex-Soldier’s Life Guided by Catholic Education

By Aidan Cuocolo, Class of 2026 and Ellie Newton, Class of 2025

Share in the Spirit for Catholic education has greatly impacted many people’s lives. This man is able to
send his three children to Catholic school, realizing the importance of the faith filled education. A
wounded warrior, John Rego, started serving in the military four days prior to September 11, 2001. He was
deployed to Afghanistan in the summer of 2002 and in 2003, his life was changed forever.

“I was in Haditha, Iraq doing missions when I was in a building that was struck by artillery rounds. It
collapsed on me burying me alive. When I was brought out by my fellow soldiers, I wasn’t breathing and I
didn’t have a heart rate, so I was considered clinically dead and they had to revive me and bring me back
to life two separate times. I ended up breaking my right arm, shattering it, breaking both of my hips,
fracturing my skull and my ribs, rupturing my stomach, my intestines, my bladder and was hospitalized
for six months. I spent two years in physical and occupational therapy afterwards recovering.”

After this life-altering series of events, the ex-soldier never lost his Catholic faith. Saying, “My time in
the military strengthened it a lot, and having children strengthened it even more. And now that my
children are going to Catholic school it is even stronger.” Using help from the Share in the Spirit
campaign, he is able to send all three of his children (11,7 and 5) to Catholic School.

John and his family see the value in an authentic, faith filled environment. His children have been able to
build and strengthen a foundation for their relationship with God. He shared some of his favorite moments
that exemplify this relationship, “Yeah, it’s generally when I get surprised by my youngest doing
something like, I’ll walk in and hear her singing a hymn from church, or we’ll sit down and say prayers at
night and I hear my children come up with something and speak to God in such a natural way that I would
have never done in my life.” This is just one small example of the impact a Catholic Education can make
on a child.

The Wounded Warrior does not just stress the importance of Catholic education, but rather he talks highly
of making sure that the values are brought into the home. “It is really important to focus as parents of
children in Catholic school on continually living the examples and teachings of Jesus and what we are
taught in church. Being good examples for our children and others around us to show the power that the
spirit provides for us and the good that it creates.”

The Share in the Spirit campaign has helped this brave hero and many others be able to give their
children the best education possible to live a life of Catholic values.

Shaping the Future: The Impact of Catholic Education on Society’s Changemakers

With contributions by Samantha Korsney, Padua Academy Class of 2024

Dana Robinson’s work with the Raskob Foundation and National Catholic Community Foundation embodies a deep commitment to service and education, values that have shaped his life and career.

In a recent discussion, Robinson shared his perspectives on these themes, highlighting how his experiences have reinforced his dedication to both charitable work and Catholic education.

Robinson’s profound commitment to service and education highlights how Catholic schooling nurtures not only academic excellence but also a deep sense of civic duty. His story is a compelling example of how Catholic education’s core values drive students to make significant impacts in their communities and beyond.

The Foundation of Values

Catholic schools are renowned for embedding core principles into their curriculum and culture, fostering a sense of service, community, integrity and stewardship. These values are not mere abstract concepts but are integrated into everyday learning and school activities.

Alumni of Catholic schools often attribute their sense of social responsibility and personal success to the foundational teachings they received. Robinson’s reflection on his upbringing and service aligns perfectly with these values.

“I grew up with the saying that service is the rent you pay for the space you occupy,” Robinson’s dedication to service is deeply rooted in his family’s traditions.

“Our family was always committed to service. So, it was in the air when I was growing up,” he said, indicating that the principles of giving and supporting others were ingrained in his upbringing from an early age. His experience is a vivid illustration of how Catholic education instills a lasting commitment to helping others and understanding one’s role in the broader community.

Beyond Academics – Fostering Whole-Person Development

Catholic education goes beyond academics to emphasize holistic development, including personal growth, ethical formation and spiritual enrichment. Schools offer programs and initiatives that encourage active citizenship, such as community service projects, environmental stewardship campaigns, and leadership development opportunities. Robinson’s involvement with Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in Africa is a prime example of how such an education can shape one’s outlook and actions.

“I worked with Catholic Relief Services as a volunteer for a couple of years in Africa after college and before grad school, and that’s where I saw the work of CRS, Catholic Relief Services, and it changed my life,” Robinson said. His experience underscores how Catholic education’s holistic approach prepares students to lead meaningful lives, balancing academic pursuits with a deep commitment to serving others.

Impact Stories – From Students to Society Leaders

The impact of Catholic education is evident in the stories of current students and alumni who are making a significant difference in various fields.

Robinson’s own journey from a Catholic school student to a dedicated philanthropist and volunteer highlights this transformation. His commitment to service, reflected in his role with the Raskob Foundation, underscores how Catholic education cultivates leaders who are devoted to societal betterment.

“My involvement with regard to the Raskob Foundation is not a requirement, it’s a privilege,” Robinson said, exemplifying the attitude of giving and leadership that Catholic education fosters. This approach spans diverse fields, from social work and environmental activism to business innovation and public service, demonstrating the broad impact of a Catholic education.

The Role of Scholarships in Extending Opportunities

Scholarships play a crucial role in making Catholic education accessible to students from various backgrounds, particularly those from underprivileged communities. These funds not only provide educational opportunities but also enable students to contribute to society in meaningful ways.

In addition to his philanthropic work, Robinson underscores the vital role of Catholic education in providing a framework for understanding and purpose. He asserts that Catholic education is crucial for societal thriving, as it teaches the “why” behind actions and beliefs.

“If people don’t understand why we live, then what do they do, where do they go? A society can’t thrive on that. Catholic education teaches the why,” Robinson explained. The transformative effect of scholarships is evident in the success stories of recipients who, like Robinson, have leveraged their education to serve others and drive positive change. Supporting scholarships through initiatives like the Share in the Spirit campaign ensures that future generations of students can experience the same profound impact of Catholic education.

A Call to Action

Investing in Catholic education through scholarship funds is a powerful way to support the development of future leaders who are committed to civic engagement and stewardship. By donating to the Share in the Spirit campaign, you contribute to a legacy of service and leadership, helping to shape a generation dedicated to making a positive impact on society. Your support not only benefits individual students but also fosters a greater good by nurturing leaders who will carry forward the values of Catholic education into their communities and beyond.

What If You Could Support Catholic Education and Enjoy With Confidence a Guaranteed Income for the Rest of Your Life

What if you could support Catholic education and enjoy with confidence a guaranteed income for the rest of your life.

You can do this with a charitable gift annuity. A charitable gift annuity (CGA) is one of the most popular and simple giving opportunities that will pay you income for life in exchange for your gift. You can also qualify for a variety of tax benefits depending on how you fund your gift.

If you fund your gift with cash or appreciated property, you qualify for a federal income tax deduction if you itemize. Additionally, you can minimize capital gains taxes when you fund your gift with appreciated property.

After making lifetime payments to you, the money goes into the tuition assistance fund for the Diocese of Wilmington. It’s a tax-savvy way to increase your financial security during your lifetime while supporting Catholic education.

Above all, you can donate with the confidence that the payments will continue without interruption throughout your lifespan. Last year, the Diocese partnered with the National Catholic Community Foundations (NCCF). Incorporated in 1997 by the Raskob Foundation for Catholic Activities, the NCCF assumes the financial liability and administrative expense of the CGA service on behalf of the Diocese of Wilmington. Organizations that use this service do so at no expense to themselves

You trust the Diocese of Wilmington with your spiritual life. You can trust the Diocese of Wilmington with your philanthropy.