Catholic Relief Services, the Commissariat of the Holy Land and National Catholic Partnership on Disability all recently thanked the Diocese of Trenton in letters to Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., for its financial contributions to those in need.
People of the Diocese donated a combined $25,822.36 to CRS, which benefits the impoverished in need in the United States and 133 other countries. For the Pontifical Good Friday Collection, the gift of $20,504.59 will support Christians and shrines in the Holy Land. And a donation of $1,500 to NCPD goes toward ministry to persons with disabilities.
“I am humbled by your generosity and inspired by your compassion,” wrote Sean L. Callahan, CRS president and CEO. “Your kindness is the very embodiment of Jesus’ teachings to care for our most needy brothers and sisters and is recognized by the Lord.”
Established 82 years ago, CRS manages programs globally in agriculture, education, emergency aid, health care, peacebuilding, water and sanitation and more. Its on the ground presence when need arises allows financial donations to have maximum impact for more than 210 million of the world’s poorest people. CRS was named by Forbes among the top 100 U.S. charities of 2024.
Franciscan Father David Grenier, representing the Franciscan Friars working for the Commissary of the Holy Land, said the donation will help maintain holy places, as the friars have done for 800 years.
“Your gift means the friars can continue to preserve the holy sites and sustain a Christian presence in the Holy Land through parish ministry, education and social services,” Father Grenier wrote. “Your gift is arriving at the exact moment our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land are facing a time of great difficulty.”
Working to “advance the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in Church and society,” as its website states, NCPD supports parishes, families and Catholic schools with resources to help those with disabilities to experience their faith fully.
“Your support of NCPD affirms that the ministry with persons with disabilities is vital to making the Church a home for all,” wrote Bishop Michael F. Burbidge, bishop of Arlington, Va., and NCPD episcopal moderator. “The remarkable work being accomplished by NCPD aligns with that of the USCCB and the entire Church – love of God and love of neighbor!”