About the Collection
When is the collection?
The collection will take place on August 26-27.
What is the purpose of the collection?
The purpose is to aid in the recovery efforts of the Archdiocese of New Orleans and the Diocese of Biloxi—60% of the collection will go to New Orleans and the remaining 40% to Biloxi.
Why have a collection now?
This collection will provide the immense help needed to rebuild the churches, schools, and services which allow the Church to bring hope and minister to God's people.
How is this collection different from last year’s collection?
Last year’s collection focused on immediate humanitarian relief, and only scratched the surface of the needs involved. This collection focuses on rebuilding churches, schools, and other essential parts of the parishes’ infrastructure which are needed to rebuild people’s hope.
To whom do I make out my check for the collection?
All checks should be made out to your diocese with a note that says “National Collection for Hurricane Recovery.”
What happens to the money that is collected on August 26-27?
Parishes will send the money directly to their diocese. Each diocese will forward all of the parishes’ collections to the USCCB for final distribution to the Archdiocese of New Orleans and Diocese of Biloxi.
What do I do if I miss the collection on August 26-27, but want to contribute?
Individuals who would like to make a donation to the collection but are unable to be at Mass on August 26-27 should place their donation in an envelope and note that it is for the “Rebuild Church, Rebuild Hope” Collection, then drop it off at the parish office or in the next Sunday’s collection.
How much damage was done in New Orleans and Biloxi?
Diocese of Biloxi reports $70,000,000 worth of damage to buildings, but only half of that amount is covered by insurance. New Orleans reports $52,000,000 estimated uninsured flood damage for buildings the Archdiocese is trying to reopen right now, and another $70,000,000 for buildings whose reopening has had to be delayed.
What is the theme of the collection?
The theme of the national collection is inspired by Bishop Thomas Rodi of Biloxi, who proclaimed to the bishops of the United States that to “rebuild the Church is to rebuild hope itself.”