Crozier Gala Postponed

Dear Friends,

How often have we heard that the devastation from the COVID-19 Pandemic has forced a cancellation or rescheduling of an event or meeting this year? Sadly, this message to you will be no different. After much deliberation and prayer concerning the recent surge in COVID-19 cases here in Arizona, we have decided to postpone our 32nd Annual Crozier Gala for the 2020 year. The Foundation’s management, Board of Directors, and Gala chairs have discussed extensively and have come to an agreement that it wouldn’t be prudent to go forward with the event this year.

We have never experienced such uncertainty as we are now. However, as the theme of the event suggests: Keeping the Faith, we must do just that. We are called to reflect upon Christ’s fidelity to His people. We must also remind ourselves as Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God”. This is a call for us to stop fearing the unknown. Our Lord is in control, and He loves us. 

Our hearts are heavy in having to share this difficult decision with our community. The Gala has always been an event where the Catholic faithful could come together to commemorate, celebrate, and financially support all the good works here in Arizona. 

Even though the celebration will not occur, the needs of the community continue to grow. The profits from the Gala event were expected to build our Forever Funds which are endowments designed to withstand economic instabilities through sensible investing practices. These Forever endowment Funds are intended to finance both the scholarships that support students attending Catholic schools as well as the grants that help frontline charitable organizations in our community for years to come!

A heartfelt thank you to those who have already pledged or purchased Gala tickets prior to this announcement. Please contact us if you would like a refund of your ticket purchase. However, if you were planning on attending the Gala but have not purchased tickets, we ask you to still consider donating to our Forever Fund endowments.

In an effort to partner with the generosity of our donors, the Foundation recently launched a $1 Million Dollar Matchopportunity that will multiply any individual gift that supports any one of the endowments the Foundation offers. We will match your gift at 50% up to $50,000.00. That is a 2:1 match! This pandemic has created unique obstacles, but also exceptional opportunities for the Catholic Community Foundation to continue to make an impact in the lives of others. Please visit our website or contact a member of our team to learn more about how you can support our community by multiplying your gift.

We pray for your health and serenity during this difficult time. It is our intention, with God’s Grace, that we will resume the Crozier Gala celebration some time in 2021. We hope to have your support and participation at that time.

Yours in Christ,
Dcn James Carabajal
CEO