Bishops call to support ‘vital’ charities

The Irish Bishops Conference have called on parishes to support charities as Covid-19 takes a toll on donations.

In a statement from the conference, the bishops appealed for people to bring “the hope and joy of Christ’s birth to people who are sick, isolated, lonely or poor”.

“A simple act of kindness can make such a difference,” the statement said. “Charities such as the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, Crosscare, Trócaire and World Missions Ireland will welcome much needed contributions as they have been unable to raise funds in the normal way during the pandemic.”

Meanwhile, Bishop Denis Brennan of Ferns diocese has urged people to support the “vital” collections for St Vincent de Paul which take place around the country the weekend of Dec 12-13.

“The decision to continue with the collection will afford all of us the chance to make direct contact with SVP local members here in the diocese, and to support their efforts,” Bishop Brennan added.