Through the dedicated work of the diocesan office of stewardship and development, Bishop Gregory Kelly launched the 2026 annual appeal across the diocese, his first annual appeal as the new bishop of the Diocese of Tyler.
Known for many years as the Bishop’s Annual Appeal (BAA), with the 2026 launch the appeal will carry a new name: the Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries (BAM). This change reflects Bishop Kelly’s desire for the appeal to focus on the ministries of the diocese.
“This change highlights the essential focus of the appeal: providing the spiritual and material support that sustains the ministries serving the faithful of our diocese,” Bishop Kelly said.
The theme for the 2026 Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries is “Take Courage,” which is Bishop Kelly’s episcopal motto. His motto comes from Matthew’s Gospel when the disciples are on the lake and Jesus, walking towards them on the water says, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” (Mt 14:27)
“[Jesus] is speaking about his presence in the midst of the storms of life, and so I think of Peter as taking courage and getting out of the boat and going. As long as he keeps his eyes on Jesus, he is able to move forward. When he loses that focus and becomes frightened by the strength of the wind, he begins to sink,” Bishop Kelly said.
Bishop Kelly’s episcopal motto and this year’s theme invite us to embrace God’s mercy and to allow his love to fill us with the strength and courage needed to respond wholeheartedly to the Lord’s call in our lives.
The annual appeal funds ministries across the diocese, including prison ministry, faith formation and family life ministries, provides support for seminarians and retired priests, and much more. This year the appeal will also support the new class of permanent deacons who have already started formation.
“Your past generosity and faith have answered the Lord’s call and made it possible for our ministries to carry forward Christ’s mission of love and service throughout our diocese. Your continued support of our ministries allows the Church in the Diocese of Tyler to be a beacon of Christ’s light throughout East Texas,” Bishop Kelly said.
The Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries officially launched in the parishes with the first commitment weekend on January 31 and February 1, 2026. With over $2.56 million raised in the 2025 annual appeal thanks to the generosity of over 4,400 donors, the goal for the 2026 appeal is $2.6 million.
To participate in the 2026 Bishop’s Appeal for Ministries, see the envelopes in the pews at your parish or visit www.dioceseoftyler.org/bam2026.
