Help the oppressed around the world

June 24, 2004

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

"Live the truth in love, speak the truth in deeds." This is the theme of 2004 Peter's Pence Collection. Each year the annual collection in support of the works of the Holy Father is held in parishes across the country.

The proceeds from this collection fund emergency-relief assistance to those throughout the world who suffer from war, oppression, and natural disasters. When we contribute to this fund, we are actively living the truth in love and speaking the truth in deeds.

We are all too familiar with other areas of the world ravaged by hatred, war, and violence. As we participate in this special appeal, we in the United States join with more than 1 billion Catholics in a loving expression of worldwide solidarity with our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, in his efforts to help alleviate the tragic consequences of such events for these vulnerable people. More than 98 cents of every dollar raised goes directly to the Holy Father's spiritual and charitable efforts around the globe.

I ask you to give generously to the Peter's Pence Collection this year on June 26 and 27, in support of the charitable works of our Holy Father. I am grateful for your generosity. Together let us ask the Lord to continue to bless us and the Holy Father in all that we do.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Rev. Msgr. Roger J. Augustine
Diocesan Administrator