Profile of the Diocese of Colorado Springs

Since its establishment in 1984, the Diocese of Colorado Springs has faithfully served Catholics and countless brothers and sisters who are not Catholic throughout the ten central and eastern counties of Colorado. At the time of its foundation our diocese served a population of approximately 65,000 Catholics through 25 parishes and 10 missions. Our area has experienced remarkable growth over the last two decades. This presents our Church with many new opportunities as well as challenges. To meet the ever-increasing needs of our parishes and our people, we are seeking support from the many faithful Catholics throughout our diocese to enable us to continue to fulfill the mission of Christ and His Church.

Today the Diocese of Colorado Springs serves more than 135,000 Catholics in 43 parishes and missions. The diocese and its parishes provide religious education and formation to more than 12,200 students. There is one private Catholic high school in the diocese that currently serves 357 students, while an additional 1,369 students receive instruction through five parish-based elementary schools. In total, there are more than 14,000 Catholic youths under religious instruction in the Diocese of Colorado Springs. To keep up with the needs of our growing population our social outreach must continue to expand. In the last year alone, Catholic Charities assisted over 190,000 individuals and families giving hope and assistance to the sick, the hungry, the addicted, the lonely, and the oppressed.

In the past, through the generosity of the Catholic people in our diocese, we have been able to fulfill the mission of the Church. In recent years, however, the funding received by the diocese has remained constant, while the needs and opportunities for ministry have dramatically increased. In order to address our increased needs our bishop and the priests of the Diocese of Colorado Springs have embarked upon this year's Annual Appeal with a holistic approach. Through the Returning God's Gifts Appeal, our diocese seeks to further advance the mission of the Church by increasing our service to the needy, encouraging more vocations, maintaining our care for the disadvantaged, and enhancing the educational and spiritual development of Catholics of all ages.