Since 2018, the Diocese of St. Petersburg has been Courageously Living the Gospel, our diocesan mission statement which defines who we are and how we live our faith as Church. In appreciation for those who have supported our mission in exemplary ways, Bishop Parkes launched the Mater Dei Giving Society on November 9, 2020 at a special live stream event featuring evening prayer and conversation. Named in honor of our Blessed Mother, the Mater Dei Giving Society recognizes those helping our diocese put our faith into action so the world can see who we are by the good works we do in Christ’s name.

This was Bishop Parkes first interactive live stream event, and he enjoyed providing guests with an update on our progress in addressing our three diocesan goals of serving the poor, accompanying our youth and young adults and sharing our faith. During his update shared, “These are huge goals. They are challenging and ambitious, and it is inspirational to see them gain traction.”

In the future, Bishop Parkes will make plans to spend time with the members of the Mater Dei Giving Society. Events may include gatherings, special Masses, morning and evening prayer, receptions and perhaps more virtual events, and more.

You are invited to view the video of our live stream launch on the right, along with a behind the scenes look at what went into hosting this interactive live stream event!

Outdoor games, burgers and hot dogs, live music provided by Spirit FM 90.5, face painting, popcorn, and icees may sound like a parish festival, but on Sunday, August 18th they were highlights of a new event called “BBQ with the Bishop.”

More than 450 members of the Mater Dei Giving Society gathered with Bishop Parkes at the St. Paul Parish Family Center in Tampa to enjoy fellowship, fun, and expressions of gratitude provided by 60 diocesan ministry leaders, as well as members of the parish staff, Knights of Columbus, and youth ministry.

“I was almost hesitant to accept the invitation because I wasn’t sure I would know anyone,” said Rose Quartucci-Reid, member of St. Michael Parish in Clearwater. “But two lovely couples from St. Benedict in Crystal River had one seat left at their table and asked me to join. They made me feel so comfortable, it felt like I have known them for years!

Mater Dei Prayer Service

One of the events for current members, as well as those who will be honored as members in the next year, is a special prayer service. For the past 3 years, the service was held at the Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle with 200-300 members participating in an afternoon of prayer, thanks and celebration.

The prayer service offers Bishop Parkes and members of his staff the opportunity to offer thanks. “Members of the Mater Dei Giving Society have made a commitment to the mission of our Diocese and spreading the good news,” shared Bishop Parkes. “I am so very grateful for what they have done, and continue to do each year.”

• Sustained giving for 10 years (this year’s members have given every year since 2012)
• Includes gifts of any amount to the Catholic Ministry Appeal, Spirit FM 90.5 and/or the Catholic Foundation
• 4,748 members in 2023
• Renewed each year

• Includes gifts of $5,000 or more to the Catholic Ministry Appeal, Spirit FM 90.5, Catholic Charities and/or the Catholic Foundation in the previous calendar year
• 311 members in 2023
• Renewed each year

• Includes any person who has disclosed a planned gift from an estate, created an endowment, Charitable Gift Annuity or provided a beneficiary designation disclosure
• Includes legacy gifts for parishes, missions, Catholic schools, Catholic Charities, Spirit FM 90.5, the Catholic Foundation and diocesan ministries
• 79 members in 2023
• Lifetime membership

• Includes gifts from businesses/organizations of $2,500 or more to the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Spirit FM 90.5, Catholic Charities and/or the Catholic Foundation in 2021 and/or 2022
• 44 businesses and organizations in 2023
• Renewed each year