PORTLAND — Parishes and schools in the Diocese of Portland raised $45,070 for the Catholic Relief Services’ Rice Bowl program during the 40 days of Lent.
The faith-in-action program encourages Catholics to fill cardboard bowls with money, giving alms to those in need and answering the call to serve neighbors.
More than 50 Catholic parishes and schools in the state participated this year. This year’s total is nearly $10,000 more than in 2013.
Christ the King Parish in Skowhegan, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Auburn and St. Michael Parish in Augusta all eclipsed $1,000 in donations.
“I’m amazed at the generosity and sacrifice on display in our diocese,” said Ruth Oakley, the director of missions/CRS for the Diocese of Portland. “The continuing increase in donations represents a growing awareness and sensitivity toward those less fortunate around the world.”
According to Catholic Relief Services, 75 percent of the donations support CRS’ humanitarian relief programs in nearly 100 countries worldwide, while 25 percent of the proceeds are given to hunger and poverty alleviation efforts in the donor’s community. Since 2011, the diocese has collected $237,475 for the program.
FMI: 207-321-7810, dave.guthro@portlanddiocese.org.
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