In recent days, shocking images and stories
of refugees in peril have provided a wake-up call to the world. In response to
this global humanitarian crisis, Cardinal Thomas Collins, Archbishop of
Toronto, announced today the launch of “Project Hope,” a special emergency
appeal to respond to the tragic situation. The 100-day campaign will have a
target of $3 million and a goal of settling 100 refugee families within the
Greater Toronto Area as soon as possible. The effort will also require 100
volunteer committees to assist with settlement services. The archdiocese will
prioritize refugees fleeing war and violence in areas of greatest need,
including Syria and Iraq, regardless of religious affiliation.
On Sunday, Pope Francis spoke of the
crisis: “As we witness the tragedy of tens of thousands of refugees that flee
death in conflict and hunger and are on a journey of hope, the Gospel calls us
to be close to the smallest and to those who have been abandoned.”
You can also donate through our parish
with a cheque made payable to ST. JOSEPH – PROJECT HOPE – REFUGEE SPONSORSHIP
and place in one of the yellow humanitarian relief envelopes.
We continue to pray for all those
suffering, mindful of our call to welcome the stranger in our midst. Those interested in assisting with volunteer
committees should contact the Office for Refugees at (647) 780-0827____________
