| Coming to the Aid of Persecuted Christians in Syria and Iraq
We have all watched, in horror and anguish, the headline stories of the persecuted Christians of Syria and Iraq. Our hearts go out to our brothers and sisters who face dislocation, homelessness, and even death from the hands of those who pervert faith in God, and would deny religious liberty to others.
If you have been searching for a way to respond to this tragedy, I want to provide you information on the two organizations we are working with from this office: Catholic Near East Welfare Association and Catholic Relief Services. Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) has been a lifeline for the poor throughout the Middle East, Northeast Africa, India and Eastern Europe for more than 85 years. It is a formal Pontifical organization founded by Pope Pius XI in 1926. CNEWA works for, through and with the Eastern Catholic churches. Our office recently promoted and attended a fundraiser on their behalf. Catholic Relief Services (CRS) eases suffering and provides assistance to people in need in 93 countries and is the official relief and development organization of the U.S. Bishops. Our office represents CRS to the diocese. Both of these organizations have been actively working in Syria and Iraq not only with the persecuted Christians, but with all faith minorities and peoples impacted by the violence. Through their work they are providing a clear witness to the love of Christ, and a true representation of faith in God. If you desire more information on the work of these two organizations you may visit them online at crs.org and cnewa.org. You may donate online or send your assistance to:
Catholic Relief Services
228 W. Lexington Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201-3443
CNEWA 1011 First Avenue New York, NY 10022-4195
Thank you for your dedication to the cause of Christ in the poor and suffering. Lenten Blessings,
Tom Garlitz |
