Parishioners will be asked at weekend Masses Dec. 7-8 to consider contributing to the diocesan Catholic Charities Parish Christmas Collection, themed “Together in Hope.”
Two years ago, Catholic Charities served 12,311 evening meals to homeless and other vulnerable individuals and families at its Christ House in Old Town Alexandria. This past fiscal year, which ended in June, Catholic Charities volunteers handed out 19,877 meals — a 61% increase.
Catholic Charities St. Lucy Food Project, which provides food to hungry neighbors at its three pantries and at parish and community pantries, saw a 41 percent jump in food requests fulfilled in the same period. The story of increasing need and response is the same at Catholic Charities Mother of Mercy Free Medical Clinics, its Emergency Assistance Ministry, and other ministries.
“When vulnerable people come to Catholic Charities, they encounter Christ’s love and the hope that springs from love. And, in a beautiful way, our own faith is strengthened when we join together in hope with those needing a helping hand,” said Bishop Michael F. Burbidge.
Catholic Charities is funded primarily through donations from parishioners throughout the diocese to feed the poor; shelter homeless men as well as pregnant mothers and mothers with young children; welcome newcomers; and offer medical and mental health care.
“As we enter this season of giving, I ask that you prayerfully consider supporting men, women and families who are in true need throughout our diocese by making a sacrificial gift to the Catholic Charities Parish Christmas Collection Dec. 7 and 8,” Bishop Burbidge said.
Find out more
Watch a video about diocesan Catholic Charities’ mission and its clients at youtube.com/watch?v=7750-ZtRaS0 and support the collection at ccda.net/Christmas.
