Giving Tuesday: A Moment to Give, a Mission to Share

Giving Tuesday has grown into a national movement of generosity, a day when individuals and communities intentionally pause to support the good causes they want to see flourish in the world. For the Church, this call to give reflects the Scriptural call to stewardship, reminding us that we are entrusted with blessings meant to be shared for the building up of God’s kingdom (1 Peter 4:10). For the Diocese of Tucson, Tuesday, December 2, the day offers an opportunity to channel this national momentum into supporting the pastoral ministries that strengthen our parishes, schools, missions, and community outreach across Southern Arizona.

As Advent begins, a season marked by hope and anticipation, Giving Tuesday naturally draws attention to the ongoing pastoral work taking place throughout our Diocese. From sacramental life and evangelization to education, formation, and outreach, these ministries reflect the Church’s mission to accompany and serve.

The priesthood is a vivid example of how the Church’s mission is lived through real people—ordinary men who step forward to serve God’s people in extraordinary ways. Seminarian Deacon Charles Nagore reflected on this during his pastoral internship at St. Andrew the Apostle in Sierra Vista, where he also served the communities of Bisbee, Fort Huachuca, All Saints Catholic School, and the diocesan Vocations Office.

“Working with so many different communities exposed me to incredible diversity and pushed me out of my comfort zone,” he shared. “At times the responsibilities felt overwhelming, but when I questioned my ability, I turned to Christ—remembering that this is His mission and that He works through me when I trust Him. This year drew me closer to Christ and helped me grow both personally and in my priestly formation.”

Deacon Nagore expressed deep gratitude for the generosity that makes seminary formation possible, describing it as essential to his path toward the priesthood. His experience reflects the impact of countless supporters whose gifts make formation, ministry, and mission possible throughout our Diocese.

The Annual Catholic Appeal supports formation for seminarians like Deacon Nagore, provides ongoing ministry support for clergy, strengthens Catholic formation and evangelization efforts, sustains mission parishes and Native American communities, and offers outreach to individuals and families seeking the Church’s care. These ministries operate quietly and consistently throughout the year, forming the pastoral backbone of diocesan life.

Giving Tuesday has become a natural moment to highlight this work. The season inspires an outpouring of generosity and reflection, as the faithful prepare for the birth of Christ and turn their attention toward the needs of their neighbors. For the Diocese of Tucson, the day underscores the importance of shared responsibility in sustaining ministries that serve thousands across the region.

As the season of Advent unfolds, Giving Tuesday stands as a reminder of the collective mission carried out across our Diocese, one rooted in faith, service, and the enduring call to be One Body, One Mission: Serving in Christ.  For those who wish to take part, supporting the Annual Catholic Appeal remains one of the most impactful ways to strengthen the pastoral ministries highlighted throughout this season. Additional information is available through the Catholic Foundation.