Dear Sisters and Brothers,
“We cannot escape the Lord’s words to us, and they will serve as the criteria upon which we will be judged: whether we have fed the hungry and given drink to the thirsty, welcomed the stranger and clothed the naked, or spent time with the sick and those in prison. (cf. Mt 25:31-45).” —Pope Francis, Call for a Jubilee Year of Mercy, April 11, 2015
As we come to the close of the Jubilee Year of Mercy, we give thanks for the blessings we have received this past year and ask you to continue your customary generosity in sharing with the most vulnerable. On Sunday, Nov. 20, there will be a special second collection for the U.S. Catholic Bishops’ Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD).
CCHD is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty by funding community programs that encourage people in need to join together to make decisions, seek solutions and find ways to improve their lives in alignment with Catholic Social Teaching. You are essential to its success. Your generous donations will provide the vulnerable with the support they need to make a positive and lasting difference in their lives.
The Gospel on Nov. 20 is about the mercy Christ showed on the cross to the two thieves crucified with him. Here in Hawaii, CCHD has supported a wide range of projects working with the most vulnerable, including HOPE Services Hawaii, Inc. and the Pu‘a Foundation, helping women returning from prison and families affected by incarceration. These projects keep the door of mercy open on a daily basis beyond the Jubilee Year.
This second collection the weekend of Nov. 20 is the primary source of CCHD funding that offers new hope every year to the most vulnerable struggling throughout the United States. Please remember, 25 percent of the collection’s proceeds stay in our diocese to support merciful work here with the vulnerable. Help us defend human dignity and mercifully Witness to Jesus. I encourage you all to give generously to this CCHD collection.
God bless you!
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Larry Silva
Bishop of Honolulu
