A special collection held at Catholic churches in Maine on September 18-19 raised over $78,000 to provide assistance after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti in mid-August.

In the weeks that followed, Maine Catholics gave to immediate aid programs through Catholic Relief Services and the Pontifical Mission Societies.

The special collection served a different purpose. Hundreds of Catholic churches and buildings, including the country's Catholic cathedral, were damaged.  

“All proceeds from the collection are being turned over to the president of the Haitian Bishops’ Conference, Cardinal Chibly Langlois, for use by the Church in rebuilding churches, schools, convents, and rectories,” said Bishop Robert Deeley. "The prayers of the faithful in the Diocese of Portland continue to be with the victims of this catastrophe. Thank you to the many who provided and continue to offer financial support. Such aid is at the very heart of our Christian faith.”

To make a donation in support of the ongoing efforts of Catholic Relief Services or the Pontifical Mission Societies in Haiti, visit www.portlanddiocese.org/crs-help-people-haiti.