Operation Rice Bowl helps Catholic families share more than money

Published: 2004-02-04

BALTIMORE (CNS) -- Operation Rice Bowl, the Lenten program of Catholic Relief Services, raised about $8 million for local and international development projects in 2003. But, more importantly, it helped families and faith communities "to open our hearts and minds to people in need around the world in a concrete way," according to the words of the program's guiding principles. During Lent, Operation Rice Bowl participants pledge to pray, fast in solidarity with those who hunger, learn about the global community and the challenges of poverty overseas, and give sacrificial contributions to those in need. In the Latin-rite church, Lent this year begins on Feb. 25, Ash Wednesday. On each Friday in Lent, families are encouraged to prepare a simple meal and donate the money saved to Operation Rice Bowl. Operation Rice Bowl runs through Holy Saturday, which is April 10 this year.

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