US dioceses launch relief efforts for Venezuela earthquake victims

Catholic dioceses across the U.S. are launching special collections, prayer campaigns, and other relief efforts in response to the deadly earthquakes that struck Venezuela, and many of the dioceses are directing donations through Catholic Relief Services (CRS).

As Zeale News reported, the twin earthquakes on June 24 killed more than 2,900 people, injured more than 16,000, left thousands missing, and destroyed the homes of many more, according to Venezuelan authorities. The magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes caused widespread destruction in and around Caracas and along the country's coast.

>> Deadly twin earthquakes strike Venezuela << 

In Boston, Archbishop Richard Henning asked parishes to take up a special collection through mid-July, with proceeds forwarded to CRS. The agency is working with Caritas Venezuela and local Church partners to provide emergency shelter, food, safe water, and medical care.

The Archdiocese of Detroit directed parishes to hold collections during the July 4-5 and July 11-12 weekends, while the Archdiocese of Los Angeles asked parishes and schools to conduct emergency collections throughout July.

In the Diocese of Palm Beach, Florida, Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez called for a special second collection during the July 4-5 weekend, along with a drive for nonperishable food and emergency supplies.

“In moments of great suffering the Church is called to be a visible sign of Christ's compassion," he said.

Other dioceses, including Phoenix and Oakland, California, are also taking up special collections, while parishes in the Diocese of Orlando are supporting relief through its disaster fund. 

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops also encouraged support for relief efforts. Bishop A. Elias Zaidan, chairman of the bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, said in a June 25 statement that CRS and Caritas Venezuela "are already responding and assessing needs." He urged broader international assistance and offered prayers for those affected.

Many dioceses, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Charlotte, North Carolina, are encouraging Catholics to donate directly to CRS to speed assistance, while some parishes are organizing local supply drives.