A collection at all Catholic Churches in Maine will help programs that aid more than 100 million people around the world, including those affected by persecution, war, and natural disasters.

The Diocese of Portland will hold a collection at all Masses on the weekend of March 14-15 to benefit Catholic Relief Services, the official overseas relief and development agency of the U.S. bishops. The collection’s theme, “Help Jesus in Disguise,” provides an opportunity during the Lenten season for Maine Catholics to assist the poor and marginalized by alleviating suffering around the globe.

Funds from the collection will be used to help programs that resettle refugees in the United States, enhance outreach and pastoral care for ethnic and cultural groups, advocate for poor and vulnerable people, work for international justice and peace, offer legal services for immigrants, and provide assistance to suffering people around the world.

For more information, contact Dave Guthro, Communications Director for the Diocese of Portland, at (207) 321-7810 or [email protected].