PHILADELPHIA, PA — Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez announced a sweeping new initiative to strengthen the Catholic Church’s presence in the Philadelphia region, unveiling both a privately funded marketing campaign and the creation of five “missionary hubs” designed to reconnect with Catholics who no longer attend Mass and to reach new audiences.
The plan addresses a stark reality: roughly 83% of baptized Catholics in the region are not regular Mass-goers. Archbishop Pérez emphasized that the Church’s mission extends beyond its congregations, noting its 1.5 million members, hundreds of thousands served annually through schools and charitable ministries, and a regional economic impact exceeding $1 billion.
“Following the example of Jesus Christ, we are moving to encounter all of our brothers and sisters wherever they are,” Archbishop Pérez said. “I want everyone to know that they are not alone and that they will always have a home in the Catholic Church.”
The missionary hubs — located in Chester, Maple Glen, Quakertown, Phoenixville, and Northeast Philadelphia — will integrate pastoral, educational, and charitable ministries, with each staffed by a dedicated team under the leadership of the parish pastor. The Archdiocese says nearby parishes will be encouraged to join their outreach programs.
Alongside the hubs, the Archdiocese launched its “Catholic. Every Day.” campaign, featuring TV, radio, digital, and outdoor advertising across the region. Ads will run through 2026, coinciding with major events such as the Winter Olympics, FIFA World Cup matches in Philadelphia, and the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
“In this digital age, it’s critical that we use all the means available to us to get our story out,” Pérez said. “This campaign will remind Catholics of their rich heritage of service to others in Philadelphia, while introducing our message to new audiences in fresh and compelling ways.”
The Archdiocese has also redesigned its website and expanded digital storytelling through a video series, Faces of Hope, showcasing Catholics whose lives reflect service and faith.
Planning for the effort included a pastoral letter and nearly 100 community meetings with about 15,000 participants, underscoring what church leaders described as a collective push to reenergize Catholic life across the region.
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