The January-February issue of NC Catholics is now available online. This month, learn about how diapers collected at events like the Love My Life Youth Rally make a world of difference to a family in Wilmington. The cover story features Father Philip Johnson, who was ordained to the priesthood Jan. 7. The issue includes a story about Anne Stahel, who retires in 2017 after 25 years with the Lewis Award, as well as a For Your Marriage column, estate planning suggestions and the annual Diocese of Raleigh financial report. Read… Read More
Late in the afternoon on Thursday December 22nd, just 3 days before Christmas, Catholic Charities staff were met with a wonderful surprise. Like something out of a storybook, four boxes of pre-wrapped Christmas gifts were unexpectedly delivered without a note. With a little work, staff were able to track down the generous elves who put together this wonderful donation. “I was surprised when the boxes were delivered,” recalled Mr. Daniel Altenau, director of disaster services. “I didn’t know what to expect opening the boxes and was immediately excited to see… Read More
The overriding theme of tonight’s Gala can be summarized in two words: “thank you,” and they are addressed to each of you gathered here this evening. While your generous support of Catholic Charities and its mission to provide direct assistance to those in most need does not carry your expectation of being recognized and thanked, it is my hope and prayer that you allow our sincere and heartfelt expression of gratitude to be conveyed. It reminds me of a story when I was a young seminarian. I had been entrusted… Read More
Homeowners, renters and business owners in the following counties are urged to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), as they may be eligible for disaster assistance Beaufort, Bertie, Bladen, Columbus, Craven, Cumberland, Dare, Duplin, Edgecombe, Gates, Greene, Harnett, Hoke, Hyde, Johnston, Jones, Lenoir, Martin, Nash, Pender, Pitt, Robeson, Sampson, Tyrrell, Washington, Wayne and Wilson . Residents should register with FEMA even if they have insurance, but only if their property was damaged by the floods or wind-driven damage. They should register with FEMA even if they have registered for help… Read More
Make an Online Donation North Carolinians, including many within the boundaries of the Diocese of Raleigh, are feeling the devastating effects of Hurricane Matthew. The state reported 20 storm fatalities, more than 80,000 homes without power and 2,000 rescues as of Oct. 12. And the situation could get worse before it gets better. Waters, such as the Neuse and Tar rivers, are forecasted to crest around Saturday, creating additional inland flooding that could be potentially record breaking. Forty counties in the state, including every county in the diocese, are under… Read More
By Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — Catholic Charities agencies joined emergency response efforts in coastal communities in four Southeastern states as residents and parish staffers began returning to assess the damage Hurricane Matthew left behind. Some evacuation orders remained in effect in South Carolina, where the storm came ashore Oct. 7, dumping up to 18 inches of rain in communities near Charleston. High water blocked some roads, preventing people from returning to their homes in South Carolina and North Carolina and others were prevented from leaving their homes… Read More
News of the death and destruction caused by Hurricane Matthew here in North Carolina is saddening. As rivers continue to rise, more damage and more need for relief efforts in the coming days is expected. Given the magnitude of this disaster and the need for a timely response, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge has asked that parishes take up a special collection for Hurricane Matthew relief efforts, to be used here in eastern North Carolina. The requested dates for the collection is October 15 and 16, 2016, or as close to… Read More
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge offers the following statement: I ask for prayers from all of the faithful in the Diocese of Raleigh and from all people of goodwill for those who have been impacted by the devastating effects of Hurricane Matthew. I express deep sympathy for the families of those who have died here in North Carolina, in other parts of the US, and throughout the Caribbean. I also ask for prayers for the first responders working to assist those in such dire need at this time. Catholic Charities is… Read More
In the spring of 2015, Ms. Jo’Shaki Clay’s world was forever changed when her fiancé was shot and killed. After his death, she faced many challenges with her family, her ten year old daughter Zamyia, and her two sons Myion, 5, and Zarreon, 3. Ms. Clay struggled to find work and pay the bills, ultimately becoming homeless. She would alternate between staying in a hotel, when Ms. Clay could afford it, and living with her mother. Ms. Clay was finally able to find a job working on the third shift. … Read More