Faith communities and people in vulnerable situations around the world have benefited greatly from the generosity of the faithful in the Diocese of Raleigh, which raised more than $500,000 in 2019 (PDF).
Each parish is part of the Church Universal; it is the Catholic Church in a particular place. The bishops of the United States created the national collections so that by combining resources we can more effectively carry out our mission as Catholics.
Jesus reminds us that the two greatest commandments are to love God with our whole heart, our whole mind, and our whole soul; and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Our contributions help people across the street and around the world, people who struggle to practice the faith, and people who live in great need. The national collections offer us an opportunity to help our neighbors in the light of the Gospel. In doing so, we act as faithful stewards of the gifts God has given us.
As Pope John Paul II said, "As faithful disciples and imitators of Christ, you are urged to go against the current, choosing the evangelical option of serving the brethren…above all, because you are impelled by the unceasing power of divine charity."
For a complete list of national second collection dates and supported ministries, please visit the Diocese of Raleigh Office of Parish Stewardship.