CHARLOTTE — A special collection will be taken up at M
The flag of Ukraine is seen outside St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Riverhead, N.Y.sses the weekend of April 23-24 to aid the Ukrainian people forced from their homes in their war-torn country, Diocese of Charlotte leaders have announced.
Donations will go to short-term and long-term relief efforts for Ukrainian refugees, through a variety of Catholic organizations.
The diocese-wide collection is intentionally scheduled for Divine Mercy Sunday, which focuses on the gift of God’s mercy and love given through Christ’s death, burial and resurrection.
“Just as we all find refuge in God’s infinite mercy and compassion, we are called to extend that mercy and compassion to our Ukrainian brothers and sisters who have been forced to flee their homes in a senseless war,” said Monsignor Patrick Winslow, vicar general and chancellor of the diocese, in announcing the special collection.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has killed thousands and displaced millions of people since February. The war has triggered Europe’s largest refugee crisis since World War II: 4.3 million people have fled to neighboring countries and another 7.1 million are internally displaced, according to the latest figures from the United Nations.
“Events such as this create a situation of human suffering that the victims cannot alleviate without assistance,” Monsignor Winslow said.
Checks should be made payable to the donor’s parish, noting “Ukrainian Refugee Relief” on the memo line.
Donations may also be sent directly to the Diocese of Charlotte. Mail checks to: Diocese of Charlotte Pastoral Center, Attn: Ukrainian Refugee Relief, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, N.C. 28203.
“Let us pray for all those impacted and for a generous response to those in need,” Monsignor Winslow said.
— Patricia L. Guilfoyle, editor