Local Catholic Churches to Hold a Special Collection to
Help with Disaster Relief and Rebuilding after Hurricane Harvey

Bishop Gregory Parkes is asking all 81 parishes and missions in the Diocese of St. Petersburg to hold a special collection the weekend of September 2-3 or September 9-10 for the needs of people affected by natural disasters including Hurricane Harvey that is causing devastating damage to Texas and is expected to impact Louisiana.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families that have lost loved ones and to all who have lost homes and businesses along with their sense of peace and normalcy,” said Bishop Parkes. “The prayerful and financial support of people from all around the country is urgently needed.”

“The best way to help right now is to make a financial donation,” said Mark Dufva, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Petersburg.

About the Diocese of St. Petersburg

The Diocese of St. Petersburg is comprised of over 461,000 Catholics and includes 74 parishes, 7 missions, 48 schools and early childhood centers, a university, and a variety of social service, health care, housing and pastoral ministries located within the five counties of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus. Mass is celebrated in 11 languages and we are led by our fifth bishop, Most Reverend Gregory Parkes who was installed on January 4, 2017.