June 5, 2003

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information, Contact:
Bud Bunce (503) 233-8373
bbunce@archdpdx.org

Collection for the works of the Holy Father

        The annual Peter's Pence collection for the Works of the Holy Father will be
taken in parishes of the Archdiocese of Portland on the weekend of June 28 – 29. The
theme for this year's collection is "No one has greater love than this" (John 15: 13). The
theme suggests an opportunity to bring about the Second Vatican Council's preferential
option for the poor, to give to others, to empower the weak and voiceless, and to sustain
those who suffer.

        The Peter's Pence collection is an opportunity for Catholics in the United States
to assist the Holy Father in helping those suffering from the impact of war, oppression
and natural disasters. More than 98 cents of each dollar contributed directly supports
the Holy Father's spiritual and charitable works.

        The collection for the Holy Father has its origins in ninth-century England. King
Alfred the Great collected a "pence" from the English landowners as financial support
for the Pope. The modern Peter's Pence collection was instituted in the 1860's by Pope
Pius IX. The collection is traditionally taken on the Sunday closest to the Solemnity of
Saints Peter and Paul, which is celebrated on June 29 each year.

        Last year Catholics in the Archdiocese of Portland contributed $115,535 to
support the works of the Holy Father. Parishioners are asked to be as generous as
possible in their support of this year's Peter's Pence collection on June 28 – 29.

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