I should no longer say that I have neighbors to help, 
 but that I must myself be a neighbor to others.

—Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti, no. 81

June 16, 2022

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

On the weekend of June 26 our diocese will participate in the global Peter’s Pence Collection. This annual collection provides essential support for the Holy See’s activities and helps Pope Francis assist the victims of wars, oppression, and natural disaster around the world.

The collection has ancient roots that reach all the way back to New Testament times. The early Christians provided material support so that the apostles—those preaching the Gospel—could distribute to those in need (see Acts 4:34-35, 11:29). Today, the Peter’s Pence Collection is an opportunity for the Church around the world to stand in solidarity with victims of war, natural disaster, and oppression in their time of need. 

For example, the Pontifical Mission Societies share the Gospel with and minister to people in places that the Church designates as mission lands due to their lack of resources and other challenges. When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world, the Holy Father established an emergency fund to address the needs of places in Latin America, Africa, and Asia where the pandemic posed a grave humanitarian crisis. With an initial contribution of $750,000 from the Holy Father, Pontifical Mission Societies provided relief to people in South Africa, Pakistan, Colombia, and other countries throughout the Southern Hemisphere.

I invite you to join with our brothers and sisters in faith from around the globe to help our Holy Father in his charitable outreach. Thank you for considering how you can respond to the call to “be a sign of mercy” by your prayers, by your spreading the word about this good work, and by your financial support.

With every prayerful best wish, I remain,

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Robert J. McManus

Bishop of Worcester