Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,

In the United States, more than 46 million people are living in poverty. Unfortunately in Louisiana, one in 4 Louisiana kids or 28.4 percent are growing up in families that cannot afford the basic necessities. In addition, these children living in poverty, experience undue stress and uncertainty in their lives.

Through an annual parish collection, the United States Catholic Bishops’ nationally anti-poverty program, Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD), is able to support those living in poverty and address the unique obstacles they face as they work to lift themselves out of poverty. By supporting this national collection, together, we bring the transforming power of God’s mercy into society and evangelii gaudium, the joy of the gospel into communities. In addition 25% of funds collected stay in our diocese for anti-poverty projects.

With your support, people living on the margins can create real change in their lives and experience the hope of Christ. Please prayerfully consider how you are able to extend the hand of solidarity and create real change in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ and bring the transforming mercy of Jesus into their communities. If you would like more information about the collection and those it supports, visit www.usccb.org/cchd/collection.

With every good wish, I am
Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend J. Douglas Deshotel
Bishop of Lafayette