Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez is asking parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to take up a special second collection the weekend of Aug. 15-16 to support humanitarian relief efforts in Venezuela following last month’s devastating earthquakes.
In a July 27 letter to priests, deacons, and parish life directors, Archbishop Pérez cited widespread destruction due to the June 24 earthquakes resulting in significant loss of life, thousands of injuries, and extensive damage to homes and infrastructure.
The archbishop encouraged Catholics to respond through prayer and financial support for the people of Venezuela, saying the collection is an opportunity for the faithful to serve as “the compassionate hands of Christ” to those facing immense hardship.
Proceeds from the special collection will benefit Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the official overseas humanitarian agency of the Catholic Church in the United States, which is providing emergency assistance in the affected areas. CRS is working through Caritas Venezuela and the local Church to provide emergency shelter, food, safe water, medical care, and other critical relief to those affected.
Funds collected by parishes will be sent to the archdiocesan Office for Financial Services, which will forward a single donation to CRS on behalf of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Those wishing to contribute directly to the relief effort also may donate through CRS at https://www.crs.org/donate/venezuela-earthquake.
Archbishop Pérez also asked the faithful to pray for those who are suffering and mourning in the aftermath of the disaster, and invoked the intercession of Our Lady of Coromoto, patroness of Venezuela.
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