Letter from Cardinal Blase Cupich - Archdiocese of Chicago

August and September 2025

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Daily, we hear heartbreaking stories of suffering from Gaza. So many innocent victims, including those who belong to Christian communities, face violence, dire living conditions, and hunger. Our Holy Father Pope Leo has said “Gaza is starving,” as he called for a cease fire. In a particular way, the faces of Gaza’s hungry children make an indelible impression on our hearts.

Perhaps we feel helpless to address this complex story that involves international players. There is, however, a pathway for us to respond. Two very reliable agencies of the Catholic Church are already there providing vital emergency humanitarian relief and medical and psychological care for the sick, malnourished, and wounded. They are the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) and Catholic Relief Services (CRS).

On the weekend of September 6-7, the parishes of the Archdiocese of Chicago will take up a special collection that will be promptly forwarded to CNEWA and CRS. You can also contribute online by using the link / button below!
> Contribute Online NOW!
Whatever you can give will go far to alleviate the suffering of our brothers and sisters in the Middle East. I know the compassion and generosity of the people of the Archdiocese of Chicago. In the name of all those who will benefit from your support, I thank you.

Finally, let us pray urgently for the gift of peace in our wounded world, a peace which only the Lord can give.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Cardinal Blase Cupich
Archbishop of Chicago