From the Executive Director
Steve Krueger

Emmanuel, "God with us."

Like the three kings before us, VOTF "came bearing gifts" on January 6th, the Feast of the Epiphany. With candlelight vigils that evening, affiliates around the region brought wrapped presents to the steps of their cathedrals and churches, symbolizing the many gifts to be found among laity everywhere, and in silent protest to the VOTF bannings that have occurred around the country.

For VOTF members, much of our focus has been on the relationship between the gifts of the laity and their use by the Church. So, it seems appropriate at this time to remind ourselves of the abundant gifts many of us have witnessed within our own organization. We are indeed blessed by this bounty of skills and time that benefit all of us. We have been blessed with a unique opportunity to see hope acted out in prayerful discernment toward the building of a stronger and healthier Church.

Wherever you go - from Maine to California - VOTF members share a deep love for the Church. Although we may experience honest disagreement as we stand in our own truth, there is a bond among our members that unites us, and is one of our strongest assets. It fortifies our hope and galvanizes our commitment.

Here in Boston, a small but dedicated staff of volunteers - including your officers and trustees - employees, and consultants serve VOTF. Our purpose here is to build an organizational and technological infrastructure where all voices will be heard and one that will continue to attract Catholics around the world. It is fair to say that those who serve feel called to do so and bring their gifts unselfishly to help fulfill the mission of VOTF. We are not here to make decisions for you. We are here to empower your voice in responding to the abuse of power we have witnessed in our beloved Church.

At the same time it is prudent to remember the enormity of the tasks we have undertaken. First, we are learning to bring our gifts to a hierarchical Church that has not actively sought to engage the voice of the laity. Second, in bringing our gitfs to the Church we are faithfully called to prayerfully discern them, as individuals and as an organization. Third, as we move ahead to fulfill our mission we are learning to use our collective gifts to build our own organization. All of this suggests that as we grow as individuals, as an organization, and as Church, we are witnessing a "work in process". For now there will be more questions than there are answers and we must embrace this and not be discouraged.

We acknowledge and discern our journey, witness the gifts of those of those around us, offer ours to them, and seek inclusion for all.