On Monday, Aug. 28, 2017, Diocesan Administrator, the Very Rev. Monsignor Mark Richard Lane has asked parishes across the Catholic Diocese of Richmond to take up a special collection to help in the relief efforts following the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. The USCCB has also requested dioceses consider taking up a special collection to support humanitarian and recovery efforts.

“The images coming from Texas and the surrounding areas are heartbreaking as the full extent of the catastrophic floodwaters and its effects become clear,” said Msgr. Lane. “As the storm continues to cause problems, we send our heartfelt prayers to all affected by this disaster and we stand in solidarity with them.”

As a result, parishes are encouraged to take up a special collection on or near the weekend of September 10th. The proceeds of this collection will be sent to Catholic Charities USA to aid in the disaster relief efforts. The organization is already spearheading efforts to provide support and care to help those most in need.

Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) is headquartered in Alexandria, VA, and is the official domestic relief agency of the U.S. Catholic Church. To find out more about Catholic Charities USA, visit www.catholiccharitiesusa.org.