By Catholic Relief Services
As the world continues to grapple with the effects of COVID-19, including an increased number of those going hungry, Catholic Relief Services is asking Catholics to remember Matthew 25:40 as CRS Rice Bowl begins on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17. As the Gospel says, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This verse calls on Catholics to reach out and help those most in need.
Each year, CRS Rice Bowl highlights communities from different countries around the world. This year, Rice Bowl participants are introduced to the people of Madagascar, El Salvador and Timor-Leste and how they are working to overcome the factors that can lead to hunger, including drought and flooding.
You are invited to reflect on their stories of hope, share a meatless meal with your family, and donate the money you save as well as other funds to the Rice Bowl program through your parish. Funds support CRS programs in targeted countries around the world. Twenty-five percent of the total alms collected in our diocese remain here to support hunger-alleviation efforts.
Rice Bowl resources are offered in both English and Spanish and are available in print and on the web. Find them at: www.crsricebowl.org or www.crsplatodearroz.org. Resources and information for this year’s Rice Bowl can also be found in the February print edition of The Central Minnesota Catholic.
Organizations interested in applying for a Local Rice Bowl Grant can obtain the grant guidelines and application form by contacting the St. Cloud Mission Office at 320-251-1100 or visiting www.stcdio.org/mission.