Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
This weekend, parishes in our archdiocese will take up the Peter’s Pence Collection. This global collection supports the Holy Father as he reaches out in mercy and charity to people who are suffering. Your generosity will help Pope Francis ease the suffering of some of the most marginalized throughout the world and show them the tender love of God.
Pope Francis challenges us to look at those around us with the eyes of mercy. He says, “We encounter so many weary and oppressed people today. … And how is our heart? Is it merciful? And our way of thinking and acting, is it inclusive?” (Jubilee
Audience, Nov. 12, 2016).
I invite you to reflect on how you feel moved to answer the call to mercy.
As an example of how this collection helps, consider the situation in Iraq, where many people still live a nightmare of war and violence. This has left many displaced, including young people in the midst of their studies. Without an educated population, it will be difficult for the country to gain stability.
With the support of your diocese to the Peter’s Pence Collection, the Archdiocese of Erbil, in Iraqi Kurdistan, has received funding for 10 scholarships for young displaced persons. With this help, students can complete their university education and move forward with the hope of rebuilding their country.
Please prayerfully consider supporting this collection as an act of mercy and charity. Join with our brothers and sisters in faith from around the globe to help Pope Francis reach the most marginalized in our world. For more information about the collection, please visit www.usccb.org/peters-pence.
You and your families are in my prayers.
Sincerely yours in our Lord,
Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D.
Archbishop of Louisville
