Jesus reminds people to care for those in need

March 23, 2006

Dear Friends in Christ:

In the story of the Last Judgment, Jesus reminds us to care for those in need. If we ignore those who are hungry, thirsty, ill, without clothes, strangers, or in prison, we turn away from Christ. When we act with compassion, generosity, and commitment to justice for the "least among us," we act as his true disciples.

An important opportunity to express Christian compassion and generosity is through The Catholic Relief Services Collection. The collection is schedule for March 25-26 in our diocese. The collection theme, Jesus in disguise, reminds us of the presence of Christ in every one of our brothers and sisters in need. The collection helps build the Church's international social ministry by funding the work of five agencies:

Catholic Relief Services, the official international relief and development agency of the U.S. Catholic community, assists people in 99 countries on the basis of need - not race, creed, or nationality. Catholic Relief Services creates opportunities for Catholics in the United States to live their faith in solidarity with poor people overseas by providing financial assistance and working to end poverty.

Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc., provides a full range of legal and support services to Catholic programs directly representing poor immigrants. Its focus is on reunification of families and protection of those fleeing persecution or civil unrest.

Migration and Refugee Services of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops annually resettles one quarter of the refugees admitted to the United States and provides advocacy for and pastoral care to many newcomers, migrant workers, and others on the move.

Social Development and World Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops advocates for poor and vulnerable people and for international peace and justice. It works to build the capacity of the Church to respond to global concerns such as religious freedom and debt relief to poor countries. The Holy Father's Relief Fund assists victims of natural disasters and other emergencies around the world. By giving to The Catholic Relief Services Collection, you are responding to Jesus in disguise. Thank you for your generosity.

Your brother in Christ,

Most Reverend R. Walker Nickless
Bishop of Sioux City