The Vatican is urging bishops around the world to ensure that fundraising efforts for the Holy Land remain unified and do not overlap with other similar collections.
Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, the prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, has specifically asked church leaders to avoid organizing separate fundraisers that might divert resources from the official Pontifical Collection for the Holy Land, traditionally held on Good Friday.
A Unified Effort for a Shared Cause
In a letter released on Monday, Cardinal Gugerotti emphasized the importance of maintaining the unity and effectiveness of charitable giving.
He stressed that all donations collected should be directed through the Holy Land commissariats in each country, ensuring they reach the intended beneficiaries without dilution or confusion.
This initiative is an official act of charity spearheaded by the Pope himself, making it vital that the collection remains centralized.
Supporting the Holy Land’s Struggling Communities
The annual Good Friday collection plays a crucial role in sustaining the sacred sites of Christianity and supporting the people who live there.
These funds are used to maintain churches, schools, hospitals, and other charitable efforts, particularly aiding the Christian communities that continue to endure hardships in the region.
Cardinal Gugerotti expressed deep concern for the suffering endured by Christians in the Holy Land, particularly in the wake of ongoing conflicts and economic challenges.
His letter highlighted the need to alleviate their struggles and offer tangible support.
Hope Amidst Fragile Peace
The cardinal acknowledged the recent truce between Israel and Hamas as a hopeful sign, allowing for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza and the West Bank.
However, he cautioned that this ceasefire remains fragile and insufficient to resolve the deeper issues of conflict and division.
He emphasized that the suffering continues and that long-term support is necessary for stability and peace in the region.
Why This Year’s Collection Is More Crucial Than Ever
The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the Holy Land, leading to a near-total halt in pilgrimages, a key source of income for local Christian communities.
Many families were forced to leave, creating an urgent need for financial assistance to help sustain those who remain.
“If we want to strengthen the Holy Land and maintain a living connection with these sacred places, we must support the Christian communities that continue to bear witness to God’s presence there,” Gugerotti urged.
A Moral Responsibility for All Catholics
The cardinal reminded bishops that the faithful in the Holy Land, especially children, have the fundamental right to live in peace, attend school, and grow up without fear of violence.
He stressed that supporting them is not just an act of charity but a moral obligation for Catholics worldwide.
“The Holy Land, its sacred places, and its people belong to all of us.
Their survival as a Christian presence, tracing back to the time of Jesus, is at stake.
We must recognize this collection as a top pastoral priority,” he explained.
Preserving the Spiritual Heritage
The Vatican has long relied on the Friars Minor of the Custody to maintain and protect the holy sites.
These dedicated friars have safeguarded Christianity’s most treasured locations for centuries.
Cardinal Gugerotti praised their unwavering commitment and emphasized the need to provide them with financial resources to continue their work.
A Plea to Bishops: Be Apostles of Support
In closing, the cardinal called on bishops to become vocal advocates for this collection, reminding them of the heart-wrenching images of destruction and suffering that have dominated the news in recent times.
He urged them to lead by example, inspiring their congregations to give generously.
With the Vatican’s appeal, the Church hopes that this year’s Good Friday collection will be a powerful testament to solidarity, faith, and compassion, ensuring that Christianity continues to thrive in the land where it all began.