Bishop Matthew Clark is appealing to more than 300,000 Catholics in the Rochester area. The theme of this year's Catholic Ministries Appeal is "Making a Difference Everyday."

Bishop Clark said the Catholic Ministries Appeal funds critical programs, services and ministries that help Catholics throughout the 12-county diocese.

This year's goal is $5.8 million; about a half million more than was actually raised last year.

This will most likely be Bishop Clark's last appeal. After 33 years of service he's retiring.

"I am rather curious about a new phase of life and its possibilities. Until there’s resolve, the question of who and when this all happens it’s hard to make specific plans, but I think there will be some exciting, interesting possibilities," said Clark.

Given the difficult financial situations many families find themselves in this year, Clark said he's hoping those with the means will give a little more. The church says that has been the trend for the last few years.