The collection will help Christians and other innocent victims of violence in Gaza and surrounding areas.

Bishop Gregory Parkes is asking all 74 parishes, five missions, and one shrine in the Diocese of Saint Petersburg to hold a special collection before September 30^th for vital humanitarian relief for the sick, malnourished, and wounded in Gaza and surrounding areas.

“The situation in Gaza and other parts of the Middle East is taking a tremendous toll on the lives of innocent victims. The Catholic Church seeks to make a difference through prayerful and financial support,” said Bishop Parkes.

“Please continue to pray for peace and for an end to suffering in all war-torn areas of the world,” Bishop Parkes added.

The president of the United States Conferences of Catholic Bishops sent a letter on August 20^th to Bishop Parkes and all bishops of the U.S. asking them to consider taking up a voluntary special collection in their dioceses, if they are able, to support the efforts of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA). Both organizations have well-established partnerships with the Catholic Church in the region to allow them to respond quickly and efficiently.

Individuals can also make donations directly to these organization by visiting their websites:

• Catholic Relief Services
• Catholic Near East Welfare Association