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Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Catholic Relief Services gives active witness to the mandate of Jesus Christ
to respond to human needs in the following ways:
by responding to victims of natural and man-made disasters;- by providing assistance to the poor to alleviate their immediate needs;
- by supporting self-help programs which involve people and communities in their own development;
- by helping those it serves to restore and preserve their dignity and to realize their potential;
- by collaborating with religious and nonsectarian persons and groups of goodwill in programs and projects which contribute to a more equitable society;
- by helping to educate the people of the United States to fulfill their moral responsibilities in alleviating human suffering, removing its causes and promoting social justice.
Annually the Diocese of Kalamazoo through the Kalamazoo Diocesan Services Appeal, makes a contribution to the American Bishops' Overseas Appeal. This helps fund Catholic Relief Services.
Operation Rice Bowl (ORB)
Since 1976, Operation Rice Bowl has been bringing families,
parishes, schools and other faith communities together during the Lenten
Season to pray, fast, learn and give. Operation Rice Bowl challenges us
to put our faith in action and walk in solidarity with our neighbors in
need all around the world. Through daily reflection, prayer and action,
Operation Rice Bowl helps you connect with your global community.
Each year, the Office of Christian Service invites parishes to participate in Catholic Relief Services Lenten Program, Operation Rice Bowl. 75% of ORB funds goes to CRS for development projects overseas. 25% of ORB funds stays in the Diocese of Kalamazoo to fund projects that assist the poor.
Since ORB's beginning in 1976, the Diocese of Kalamazoo has raised $931,717. CRS has received $698,787 and the remaining amount of $232,929 has remained in the Diocese.