In conjunction with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Bishop Cote has authorized a voluntary appeal for financial support to assist in the relief efforts resulting from the humanitarian crisis that is unfolding in Ukraine and the surrounding countries. Bishop Cote asks all pastors to take up this collection on the Second Sunday of Lent, March 12-13, 2022.
In a letter to the Bishops of the United States, dated February 28, 2022, the Most Reverend Jeffrey Monforton, Bishop of the Diocese of Steubenville Ohio and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Aid to the Church in Central and Eastern Europe, said the collection will allow the faithful to make a timely contribution and provide assistance to the victims of war in Ukraine.
Bishop Monforton likewise noted that, “The USCCB is uniquely positioned to provide aid to the region, having built strong relationships with brother bishops there these last 30 years, and having given so much assistance in the development of the Church’s capacity to respond to pastoral and social needs. A robust response at this moment will allow the Church in the United States to continue to be a strong partner in the rebuilding and restoring of the Church in Central and Eastern Europe, and to give critical and timely humanitarian aid now for Ukraine.”
Please remember all victims of the current war in Ukraine in your Masses and prayers.
May Our Lady, Queen of Peace, intercede to bring a swift end to the violence and sufferings that has once again befallen our world.
Thank you in advance for your support of this effort and the generous response of the faithful to assist our Ukrainian brothers and sisters at this time.