Special Collection for Earthquake Relief

Dear Friends:

The images coming out of Turkey and Syria following the February 6, 7.8 magnitude earthquake, are showing the world that the people there are experiencing immense suffering, destruction, and death. There are reports that the death toll has surpassed 11,000 and continues to rise. 
 Catholic Relief Services reports that “across affected areas in both countries, apartment buildings and schools have been leveled. For Syrians, the damage took place in areas already devastated by years of war. In Turkey, the airports and the high roads of Anatolia are closed, and most hospitals are unusable. Schools have been closed across the country.”
Recognizing the growing need for assistance, Cardinal Seán has asked that a special collection be taken the weekend of February 18/19, 2023, in all parishes in the Archdiocese of Boston. Funds raised will help to provide safe shelter, and access to food, clean water, and hygiene supplies. The USCCB has requested that we encourage the faithful to generously support the efforts of Catholic Relief Services and the Catholic Near East Welfare Association who are working to provide emergency humanitarian relief. 
To participate, please write your checks to your home parish, and add “Turkey/Syria Earthquake Relief” to the memo line. Cash donations should be placed in an envelope marked with the same note.
On behalf of the Cardinal, thank you for your attentiveness to this important collection and expression of our solidarity with those who are suffering.
Fraternally yours in Christ,
Very Rev. William P. Joy
Assistant Vicar for Administration
Special Assistant to the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia