PEACE, in a world where as many as 24 wars are being waged, is a key focus of Project Compassion this Lent as Caritas Australia launches its annual appeal.
Caritas Australia chairman, Archbishop Adrian Doyle of Hobart, addresses that priority in his Project Compassion message to Catholics throughout Australia for the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday, February 25.
The theme for Project Compassion 2004 is ‘Building Peace, Bringing Hope’.
Archbishop Doyle said it had been estimated at least 180 million people had died as a direct result of war in the 20th century, and as many as 24 wars, mostly civil conflicts, were being fought today.
He said Pope John Paul II had been a great advocate for peace and had spoken about the impact of war many times.
Former Governor-General, Sir William Deane, has encouraged Australians to give generously to the appeal.
Sir William said Caritas Australia was committed to working in partnership with the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the world to help them realise a better future.
The 2003 appeal raised more than $6 million.
Project Compassion donation boxes, envelopes and brochures are available through all parishes. Contributions of $2 and more are tax deductible.
For more information visit the Caritas Australia Web site at www.caritas.org.au or phone 1800 024 413.
