On 6 March, Trócaire, the overseas development agency of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, was presented with a €2,400 cheque to support people affected by the conflict in Gaza. The funds were raised by lay members of the Holy Family of Bordeaux from Newbridge, Clane and Magherafelt, along with their family and friends. Church Outreach Manager with Trócaire, Ms Jane Mellett (pictured with lay members of the Holy Family of Bordeaux), received the generous donation from the lay members which will go directly to support Trócaire’s work in Gaza, specifically through Caritas Jerusalem.
Ms Mellett welcomed the contribution stating, “Through our partners working in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, Trócaire is providing essential services, including primary healthcare, mental health and psychosocial support, as well as cash assistance to those in need. These are vital supports which are badly needed at this time. Despite the ceasefire, Palestinians are living in the most horrendous circumstances and are in need of lifesaving supports.”
Ms Mellett acknowledged the immense turmoil in the world today, noting that many people feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of distressing news. However, she emphasised that the actions of the Holy Family lay members serve as an inspiring reminder that, even in the face of injustice, we all have the power to make a difference.
Ms Mellett continued, “The actions of this group reminded me of Pope Francis’ words in his 2015 best-selling encyclical letter on care for our common home, Laudato Si’, wherein he says to never forget the power of small actions, they are the ‘little ways of love’ which have a ripple effect across our communities; they contribute to a sense of global solidarity which is badly needed right now. Today’s fundraising success is a reminder that we can all do something.”
The Worldwide Family of Pierre Bienvenu Noailes (a priest of Bordeaux, France) is an international, spiritual and apostolic Family, founded in 1820, which brings together men and women from the various vocations in the Catholic Church: Apostolic and Contemplative women religious, Consecrated Secular Women, Lay Members, Priests and Youth. Its mission statement notes: “We share the same mission and spirit and draw our inspiration from the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph who lived in perfect communion with God.” In this way, Holy Family lay members try to live the aim and spirituality of communion and inclusion inspired by the Holy Family of Nazareth. They meet each month to pray, reflect on their Way of Life, and from here reach out to help others, especially the most needy and vulnerable in society.
Trócaire was set up by the Irish Catholic Bishops in 1973 to express the concern of the Irish Church for the suffering of the world’s poorest and most oppressed people. Visit www.trocaire.org to read about the work of Trócaire and to make a donation.
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