2017 World Day of the Poor

The World Day of the Poor is a call by our Holy Father Pope Francis for Christian communities throughout the world to become an ever greater sign of Christ’s charity to the less fortunate and those most in need.

It is Pope Francis' wish that through this event, Catholics will grow in solidarity and friendship with the poor in their communities as they contribute to their aid through service and other charitable means.

Francis says, “If we truly wish to encounter Christ, we have to touch his body in the suffering bodies of the poor, as a response to the sacramental communion bestowed in the Eucharist."

To help support the Holy Father in this effort, the Diocese of Arlington has launched a week-long World Day of the Poor campaign. Through this dedicated campaign page, the lay faithful will have access to numerous resources, events, and opportunities for helping the poor in their community, the Diocese, and throughout the world.

We invite you to take a moment to learn about the many beautiful opportunities and resources available in our Diocese during this special week as we prepare to celebrate the World Day of the Poor.

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2017 World Day of the Poor Message from Bishop Burbidge

Read Bishop Michael F. Burbidge's message for the 2017 World Day of the Poor at the Arlington Catholic Herald website.

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Build "Care Bags" for the Homeless in the Diocese

Help Catholic Charities bring hope to the homeless! Fill "care bags" with the items we have listed, then drop them off at one of the specified locations between Monday, November 20 and Wednesday, November 22 during regular office hours. "Care bags" will be distributed to the homeless in the Diocese via the new Catholic Charities Mobile Response Center Vehicle.

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St. Lucy Project Pantry - Volunteer Opportunities

Help the staff at St. Lucy Project weigh food donations received over the weekend, stock the shelves, pack food bags, wrap bread & veggies or make meal bags, breakfast kits, sandwich lunch bags, and care packages!

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