September 18, 2017

Richmond, VA – 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 Irma.

“In the past week, we have watched as another hurricane, Hurricane Irma, devastated islands in the Caribbean, and then the southeastern United States. Again, the emergency response was immediate, but we know that the recovery will take a long time,” said Msgr. Lane.

“I ask that you take up an emergency collection to support humanitarian aid, and to assist with long-term efforts to restore communities after this widespread destruction.”

“I am aware that this request comes right after the emergency collection for Hurricane Harvey. That storm caused catastrophic damage and compelled us to respond, but Hurricane Irma has been devastating also, and our brothers and sisters need our help.”

“We send our heartfelt prayers to all affected by this disaster and we stand in solidarity with them.”

Parishes are encouraged to take up a special collection on or near the weekend of September 24th. The funds collected in this one-time special appeal for Hurricane Irma Relief will support Church relief agencies as they provide humanitarian aid in the form of water, food, shelter, and medical care, as well as long-term efforts to restore communities after widespread destruction, and the USCCB for pastoral and reconstruction aid to the Church in the Caribbean and the United States.