Collection aids poor globally

The appeal goes back to 1939, when U.S. bishops set up a committee for relief of distressed Catholics in foreign countries. In 1940, the bishops established committees to handle appeals for special causes. One year later, the first Bishops' Welfare Emergency Relief Fund collection was taken.

Today, the annual Appeal supports four organizations: CRS, Migration and Refugee Services, the Department of Social Development and World Peace of the United States Catholic Conference, and the Holy Father's Relief Fund:

* CRS, the overseas relief and development agency of American Catholics, works in more than 80 countries. Although active in responding to emergencies, the agency also helps local communities identify long-term solutions to poverty. CRS supports more than 2,000 community development projects that emphasize agriculture, education, emergency relief, small enterprise development, health, human rights and welfare.

* Migration and Refugee Services helps resettle refugees admitted to the United States. The agency plays a vital policy leadership role before Congress and the White House; alerts dioceses and others of legislative issues impacting immigrants and refugees; and provides for the spiritual needs of ethnic apostolates, ministries, migrants and farmworkers.

* The Department of Social Development and World Peace applies social teaching to domestic and international issues that have significant moral and human dimensions; advocates for the poor and vulnerable and for genuine justice and peace; and builds the capacity of the Church to act effectively in defense of human rights.

* The Holy Father's Relief Fund assists victims of natural disasters and other emergencies, such as earthquakes, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and wartime conflict.

In a letter read in parishes last weekend, Bishop Howard J. Hubbard asked parishioners to support the appeal and respond to the Pope's call to "open wide the doors to Christ" by making a commitment to justice and faith.

"I appreciate your unfailing commitment to the universal Church and the American Bishops' Overseas Appeal," Bishop Hubbard said. "Your efforts in building global solidarity at the parish level will provide hope in the new millennium for hundreds of thousands of our needy and grateful brothers and sisters abroad. Know how deeply grateful I am for your steadfast generosity and support." (PQ)

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