At the request of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Reverend John Barres, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre, authorized an additional special second collection last week to assist those suffering from the seemingly unprecedented number of natural disasters.
The collection can be taken up in the 133 parishes of the Diocese of Rockville Centre the weekend of Oct. 7 and 8 or the weekend of Oct. 14 and 15.
The Church in the Caribbean, especially the Diocese of St. Thomas, and the six dioceses of Puerto Rico and Cuba have suffered significant devastation.
The Church in Mexico also experienced substantial damage due to the earthquake, in several dioceses, some of which are the poorest in the country. “We pray in solidarity for all those who are suffering in these days,” said Barres.
To contribute to the Diocese of Rockville Centre’s Natural Disasters Fund, parishioners are asked to contact their local parish or they can send a donation to the Finance Office, Diocese of Rockville Centre, P.O. Box 9023, Rockville Centre, NY 11571-9023.
Checks should be made out to the Diocese of Rockville Centre. “Natural Disaster Collection” should be marked on the memo section of the check. For more information call 516-678-5800, ext. 221.
