December 21, 2005

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Just four months ago, we witnessed our nation?s largest-ever natural disaster. Our shock and disbelief quickly gave way to a heartfelt desire to help. Within days and weeks, numerous fundraising efforts sprang up at our 44 schools and 67 parishes. Our diocese also sent $2.4 million ? the largest second collection in our 31-year history ? directly to Catholic Charities USA?s relief efforts in the Gulf Region.

At the same time, our diocese reached out to those who relocated to our neighborhoods and schools. Through Partners in New Hope, our multi-pronged parish-based effort to serve these hundreds of area evacuees, we have opened our doors and our hearts. To date:

Nearly 100 families (280 individuals) have received assistance, with services ranging from provision of material necessities to counseling and referrals to other agencies; Of these, nearly 40 families (130 individuals) have been adopted by over 20 parishes which are helping evacuees meet needs such as housing, employment, material assistance, and orientation; Over 20 students displaced by Katrina are currently enrolled in our Catholic schools.

Yet we can and must do more for these brothers and sisters who have suffered so much. That is why I have asked that a second collection be taken at the Masses on the weekend of January 7-8th. Unlike our collection in September, the money received in this collection will go entirely to meet the needs of our new neighbors. These needs include employment assistance and training, short-term rental assistance, education, counseling, and referrals.

We are the Body of Christ and make Him visible. May those displaced by Katrina, saddled by so many hardships, see us ? the Church of Christ ? as partners in new hope. Let us reach out to them by offering the support of financial assistance and prayer.
United with you in this outreach of love, I remain,

Faithfully in Christ,

Most Reverend Paul S. Loverde
Bishop of Arlington

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