“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Japan and to the Catholic community there. The challenges facing the government and people of Japan are extraordinary. The small and vibrant Catholic community in Japan will be greatly aided by the concern of the universal Church. Catholics of the Archdiocese have been generous in responding to numerous natural disasters in recent years. Catholic Relief Services (CRS), working through ‘Caritas Japan,’ is providing the international Catholic community the opportunity to express its solidarity and support to the victims of this tragedy.”
Cardinal O’Malley has authorized a second collection in the parishes of the Archdiocese of Boston to provide assistance through CRS. For the collection, pastors may choose either this coming weekend, March 19/20, or the weekend of March 26/27. Funds collected will be sent to CRS to assist in relief efforts in Japan. CRS will coordinate with Caritas Japan to provide immediate and long-term assistance.
Individuals may also contribute at www.crs.org/japan