Bishop Calls for Hurricane Irma Relief Collection

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
 
As we watched Hurricane Harvey ravage the communities on the Gulf Coast, who could have imagined that Hurricane Irma would be immediately on its heels with one of the worst storms in history bringing devastation to so much of the Caribbean and parts of Florida. The scenes coming to us in the media in recent days are somber and our hearts go out to so many people whose lives, whose homes, and whose livelihoods have been crushed by this disaster.
 
Once again, we are called to respond. I ask that we join with Catholic Dioceses around our nation in taking up a second collection for relief work in the Caribbean and Florida. Given that we have already scheduled the annual Catholic School Appeal on September 24, I ask that we prepare for a Relief Collection at all Masses on September 30 and October 1. We will also provide for an online donation form on our website at worcesterdiocese.org which can be used at any time.
 
Since my arrival in the Diocese of Worcester, I have on many occasions commented on the wonderful generosity of the people of our Diocese. I pray that our continued sense of gratitude for the gifts God has bestowed on us will encourage us to help our brothers and sisters in this time of need. Thank you for your assistance and may God continue to bless you and your families.
 
With every prayerful best wish, I remain
 
Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Robert J. McManus
Bishop of Worcester