Do more with less

Richard A. Sokerka

Lent began yesterday and as they have done for four decades, Catholics across the country are placing a cardboard box and calendar in their homes to begin a spiritual journey that changes lives around the world.

This Lent they will again be participating in the 41st year of Catholic Relief Services’ (CRS) Rice Bowl, which goes far beyond the funds it raises for those in need.

For Catholic families, it begins conversations about their faith, about the role of charity, and about the many different people who make up our world family. For Catholic parishes and schools, it unites communities for Lenten faith reflection around the spirit of serving those in need and the good work of the Church around the globe.

We are in the midst of the Jubilee Year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis, and the Rice Bowl program in Lent allows Catholics to open a special door to learn more about — and participate in — the works of mercy done in their name by CRS, the international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States.

As always, 25 percent of all contributions raised stay right here in the Paterson Diocese to help our diocesan Catholic Charities agencies support hunger and poverty prevention programs such as community gardens, food pantries, support groups, and job centers. The remaining 75 percent goes to support CRS’ humanitarian programs overseas, providing life-saving assistance and hope to impoverished communities.

Also, during each week of Lent, The Beacon will publish a recipe from a different country served by CRS along with a reflection on eating simply during Lent to help the good work of CRS.

This Lent, in solidarity with so many other Catholics, join the Rice Bowl program and do more with less to be one with the most needy throughout the world.