Diocesan Catholics Contribute $2.4 Million to Katrina Relief

Catholics in the Arlington Diocese’s 67 parishes contributed over $2.4 million to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts in the largest second collection to date, according to an announcement by Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde.

The funds taken up in a collection at all Masses in early to mid-September will assist Catholic Charities USA relief efforts in the Gulf Coast region.

"Our diocesan family of faith has responded generously with open hearts and life-giving assistance to those impacted by our country’s worst natural disaster," said Bishop Loverde. "My prayer is that we will continue to partner with and pray for the people of the Gulf Coast. May we be for them tangible signs of the hope and God’s love."

Earlier this year, diocesan Catholics contributed $1.8 million through a special second collection to assist Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in its tsunami relief efforts.

Through "Partners in New Hope," the diocese’s parish-based relief operation to address the critical needs of Katrina evacuees currently living within the diocese, a comprehensive range of services is being provided to over 30 families; 41 students displaced by Katrina are enrolled in Catholic schools.

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