FaithFULL food drive surpassed expectations

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Thank you for your enthusiastic participation in the second annual FaithFULL food drive. Parishes and schools throughout the diocese collected 121,339 pounds of food — 20% higher than our goal and 55% higher than last year’s total.

Hunger is a critical issue in many communities in South Jersey. One in six people in the Diocese of Camden is food insecure, including one in five children. Confronted with this challenging statistic, our Gospel call to take action is clear: Jesus reminds us that whenever we feed someone who is hungry, we feed Christ himself (Matthew 25:31-46). Reaching out to those in need is an essential element of discipleship.

The FaithFULL Food Drive was a positive response to the needs of our brothers and sisters thanks to the effective work of many individuals and groups. Parish ministries, from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to youth groups to the Knights of Columbus, collaborated to involve entire parish communities in the drive. Catholic schools participated creatively: for example, several high schools collected canned goods for admission to basketball games. Social service organizations in the diocese helped to make sure the donated food would be distributed efficiently to those in need. Thank you to Catholic Charities, the Food Bank of South Jersey in Pennsauken, the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Egg Harbor Township, and a number of parish-based food pantries for partnering on this project.

As we observe the Lenten season through the practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, let us continue to be mindful of those who face poverty and hunger, and pray for the Holy Spirit to ever increase our compassion and generosity.

With prayers and wishes for a glorious Easter Season and with gratitude and admiration for your generous response in this food drive and on so many other occasions, I am,

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Dennis J. Sullivan. D.D.

Bishop of Camden