The Diocese of Chalan Kanoa traditionally requests parishes to conduct second collections on various select occasions and reasons including on Good Friday, Mission Sunday, etc. Through the generosity of the entire Catholic faithful in the CNMI, the following amounts were collected and remitted:
2021 2020
- Good Friday/Lenten collection $ 5,546.39 $ 3,755.18
- Peter’s Pence collection $ 5,139.92 $ 5,561.06
- Mission Sunday collection $ 5,930.92 $ 4,652.71
Proceeds from the Good Friday/Lenten collection is sent to the Congregation for the Eastern Churches to help in the works of the Catholic Church to the Christians living in the Holy Land. This collection help fund educational and ecclesial projects in the Middle East and support ministries and programs of the Holy See, such as:
- Preservation of shrines connected with the life of Jesus and the prophets
- Provide senior care facilities in Bethlehem and Nazareth
- Help keep schools open for pre-K through grade 12 students
- Support formation of priests and brothers
Peter’s Pence collection, on the other hand, supports the charitable works of Pope Francis helping people suffering in our world, especially those enduring the effects of war and violence, natural disasters, and religious persecutions. This collection is remitted to the Vatican through the Apostolic Nunciature in New Zealand.
And, finally, the Mission Sunday collection is forwarded to the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific (CEPAC). Conducted every World Mission Sundays, proceeds go to help the mission dioceses around the world. As a mission diocese, the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa regularly receive assistance from these funds to support its various ministries.
Also in 2021, special collections have been done in support of Karidat. The first one was last February 27-28 while the second one was last May 22-23. Karidat is the social services arm of the diocese. It provides shelter for abused women and children, youth and family counseling, emergency food and housing assistance, and hotline assistance to victims of crime, among many other charitable works. Funds collected were turned over to Ms. Lauri Ogumoro and amounted to:
- Feb 27-28 $ 10,248.29
- May 22-23 $ 4,652.75
The above clearly demonstrates the selfless generosity of everyone despite the uncertainties and financial difficulties brought by the current pandemic. The Diocese of Chalan Kanoa is truly grateful. May God bless us all!
