Catholics continuing tsunami aid

Catholics in the Albany Diocese have contributed more than $692,000 to aid the survivors of the December tsunami in Asia.

The total represents donations collected in parishes, schools, hospitals and the general community in the 14-county Diocese, said Sister Maureen Joyce, RSM, chief executive officer of Catholic Charities, which is spearheading the appeal.

So far, about 82 percent of parishes have reported donations made during special collections for the tsunami survivors. The total is expected to rise when the remaining parishes report.

The money is being forwarded to Catholic Relief Services, the overseas aid agency of American Catholics. CRS will use the donations for emergency and long-term relief.

Bishop Howard J. Hubbard said, "Once again, the Catholics of the Diocese have demonstrated their tremendous generosity in responding to those in need. The outpouring of love and concern on behalf of the tsunami victims and survivors has been extraordinary."

(Donations can be sent to Catholic Charities, 40 N. Main Ave., Albany, NY 12203. CRS is seeking experts in the areas of water/sanitation and shelter/reconstruction. Contact Mary Olsen, 453-6650, for further information.)

(2/3/05)