Give generously to Peter Pence Collection

June 23, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Each year, the annual Peter's Pence Collection in support of the works of the Holy Father, is held in parishes across the country. The proceeds from this collection will fund emergency relief assistance to those throughout the world who suffer from war, oppression, and natural disasters. The theme for this year's collection is Goodness Works Quietly. Through works of charity, Catholics provide a quiet but powerful witness of love and deeds to empower the weak, the defenseless, and the voiceless, and to sustain those who suffer.

Pope Pius IX formally instituted the modern Peter's Pence Collection in the 1860s. Special appeals have since been held in many countries on the Sunday closest to June 29th, the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, for the charitable works of the Holy Father.

As we participate in this special appeal this year, we join with the more than one billion Catholics worldwide in a loving expression of solidarity. We share in the concern of the successor of Peter, Pope Benedict XVI, for the many different needs of the universal curch and for the relief of those most in need around the globe.

This year, the Peter's Pence Collection in our diocese is scheduled to be taken in all parishes on June 25-26, 2005.

I ask you to consider a contribution to the collection this year, and I am most grateful for your generosity. Together let us ask the Lord to bless the Holy Father and each of us as well as those in need throughout the world.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Rev. Msgr. Roger J. Augustine
Diocesan Administrator