How many times do we see poor people rummaging through garbage bins to retrieve what others have discarded as superfluous, in the hope of finding something to live on or to wear! They themselves become part of a human garbage bin; they are treated as refuse.
Picture courtesy of Vatican News
Bishop Alan Williams sm has written to parishes across the Diocese, asking them to support World Day of the Poor this weekend. He said: “Pope Francis’ strong words encourage all of us to consider the poorest and most vulnerable.” (The full text of Pope Francis’ message is on www.vatican.va)
“I would suggest that you take a collection either for Caritas Anchor House, or for a local homelessness project to which your parish is affiliated. Our Diocese has a website full of charitable action projects that all need volunteers – have a look at www.caritasbrentwood.org. Caritas Anchor House, a Catholic charity based in Newham, works with over 140 homeless people every day. You can read more about their amazing work at www.caritasanchorhouse.org.uk.”
