Lenten Program of Sacrifice - 2026

Our Lenten Work of Charity

Hope Reborn in Ethiopia!  

Letter of Gratitude

A Message of Gratitude…
The following letter was received last week, acknowledging the receipt of $17,000 for the mission of the Filippini Sisters in Ethiopia. The funds were raised through our parish’s Lenten work of charity.

 
PONTIFICIO INSTITUTO MAESTRE PIE FILIPPINI
Via della Stazione di Ottavia, 72
00135 Roma
 
 
Dear Msgr. Tom and Parishioners,
 
With grateful and joyful hearts, we thank God for you. Your generosity to the Missions of the Religious Teachers Filippini is a true work of mercy—one that reflects the light of Christ in a world that longs for peace. Your gift becomes a blessing for the children of Sassi, Ethiopia.  Each day, more than 300 little ones arrive seeking not only the gift of learning, but the simple, essential grace of a meal.  For many, it is the only nourishment they will receive. Because of you, they are welcomed with open arms, warm food, and the loving presence of the Sisters. These children are still emerging from the shadows of a two-year civil war that claimed the lives of both adults and children. The pain is real and the rumors of renewed conflict weigh heavily. Yet in the midst of this suffering, your kindness brings a spark of joy, a reminder that God has not forgotten them. Your generosity is more than support; it is a lifeline, a prayer made visible.  It allows the Sisters to continue to offer safety, stability, and love in a place where uncertainty is a part of daily life.   We thank you from the depths of our hearts. Please continue to hold these children in your prayers, that the Sisters may have the strength, courage, and resources to care for them in the way God desires.  May the Lord bless you and your families abundantly for the hope you bring.
 
Sr. Mary Beth Lloyd, M.P.F. 
Mission Office Director
 
PS Thank you so very much. Your generous gift will feed hundreds of children.  Nothing better! Promise special prayers for all of you. Such a generous gift of $17,000 will not be taken lightly!   God bless you all!  

Report

We are very pleased to report that this year’s Lenten Work of Love to benefit Saint Lucy School in Adigrat, Ethiopia realized $17,010.00!  Thanks for all who contributed to this cause through the poor boxes during Lent. We were very pleased to send these funds to the Religious Teachers Filippini who administer the school.

Religious Teachers Filippini

Expansion of St. Lucy School 
Adigrat, Ethiopia 

St. Lucy School in Adigrat is stretched beyond limits: The Religious Teachers Filippini have launched a project to build additional classrooms, a dining hall, a nap room, and gathering space. The recently concluded four year civil war made education nearly impossible, and the country’s most vulnerable—the children—desire to reclaim their education. On the first registration day, 1,400 children (K-8) arrived and are waiting for placement.  Stand with the Religious Teachers Filippini in their mission to give the children the gift of hope, learning, and a future filled with possibility.  
Learn more:  www.aidsorphansrising.com

Throughout Lent, the donations made to the Poor Boxes at the doors of our churches will be dedicated to “Hope Reborn in Ethiopia”  You may also wish to mail your gift to the parish office or place it in an envelope clearly marked “Hope Reborn in Ethiopia” and drop it in the collection basket.