Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Rains that usually fall from October to December failed to appear in 2010 in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia. Spring rains this year were erratic and insufficient. As a result, the area lost two growing seasons. This drought has placed 10 million people in dire need of humanitarian aid. Kenya, in addition to facing its own drought problems, is also faced with refugees from Somalia. The already high prices for staple foods are increasing, nearly doubling already. There has not been a drought of this proportion in the area in 60 years.
We, who rarely ever miss a meal except by intent, are called by our faith to be in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in eastern Africa. Just as the original disciples called people from the followers of our Lord to attend to the feeding of the widows, we are called to help feed the starving in this region of Africa.
A special collection will be taken up the weekend of Aug. 27-28 for this purpose. Helpless parents in this region are silently watching their children die. A donation of just what it costs your family for a meal at your favorite fast food restaurant would make a difference in the lives and development of children deformed and dying of malnutrition. We will send the collection to Catholic Relief Services which is already on the ground in these nations working to alleviate the suffering. Be assured of my prayer-filled thanks for your ongoing generosity.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Rev. Martin Amos
Bishop of Davenport
