“Canadian Catholics are sometimes not aware of how much the CCCB contributes to the well-being of the church and society, or they may not fully understand its role,” bishops’ conference president Archbishop James Weisgerber wrote to pastors Aug. 15. “As a bishop today, it would be impossible for me to exercise my pastoral ministry with the CCCB, as it provides an essential contact with all my brother bishops in Canada as well as a unique opportunity to collaborate with them nationally and internationally.”

He noted that dioceses and parishes may face a “certain reticence about fund-raising” because of diminishing resources and a decline in religious practices.

“The same challenges have also been true for the CCCB, which for a number of years has been reviewing its operations and reducing its operating budget,” he said. “Nevertheless, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops is determined to carry out its responsibilities to its fullest capacity.”

The conference offices in Ottawa support the work of the bishops with a staff of 40.  Weisgerber noted the conference brings a Catholic perspective to social affairs and provides liturgical resources and materials and promotes liturgical and sacramental formation.

Through membership in KAIROS and the Canadian Council of Churches, the conference takes part in ecumenical work as well.

The CCCB founded the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace 40 years ago to be its agency in the developing world.  It co-sponsors the Catholic Organization for Life and Family (COLF) with the Knights of Columbus. The CCCB supports evangelism through missionary activities in Northern Canada and elsewhere in the world.

The CCCB also works closely with the Holy See and other bishops’ conferences and other national and international organizations.

The bishops hold their annual plenary session in Cornwall, Ont., Sept. 22-26.