On the weekend of August 30/31, Saint Mary's parish will take a special emergency collection to provide relief to the people of Gaza.

This past week, Bishop Knestout sent the following request to all pastors:

"As you well know, the ongoing crisis in Gaza has left many people in desperate circumstances including a strike against the only Catholic church in Gaza. Our Christian brothers and sisters and other innocent victims of the violence in Gaza and the surrounding areas are struggling to survive, protect their children, and live with dignity in dire conditions. They urgently need the assistance of the Catholic community of the United States. Our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, continues to call for a cease-fire and for aid to enter the territory."

In response to the Bishop's request, Saint Mary's will take a second collection this weekend. Checks can be made payable to "Saint Mary's." Cash will also be accepted. All donations offered in this second collection will be forwarded to the Diocese of Richmond and dispersed to The Catholic Near East Society and Catholic Relief Services. These two organizations have a strong network of contacts throughout the Middle East, and are already 'on the ground,' providing aid to those who are in need. Parishioners may also decided to make donations directly to these Catholic organizations, or to other trusted charities who are working in that region.

Thank you in advance for your generosity!