The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD)

CAFOD is the official aid agency for the Catholic Church in England and Wales. It aims to put Christian faith into practice by helping some of the world’s poorest people to improve their lives. It does this by campaigning, raising awareness of issues of injustice and fundraising for its humanitarian relief and sustainable development work in over 70 countries. There are two national main fund raising events each year, the Lent and Harvest Fast Day Appeals. Families are asked to give the amount they would spend on a meal to CAFOD.

CAFOD at St Laurence’s

It has become customary in the Parish to supplement the gift envelopes with a Lenten Simple Supper and a Sale of Harvest Goods and Harvest Supper. During the summer we usually try to have a third fundraising event.

CAFOD also runs regular campaigns that seek to change policies that keep people in poverty. We try to support these. We also try to hold at least one event each Lent and Easter which focuses upon prayer and reflection. Helpers are always wanted to read appeals, collect envelopes and organise events. Details of CAFOD publications and Gift Aid forms are on the notice board. Green collecting boxes, to use at home, are available in the sacristy.

For more information and offers of help please contact Mary Watkins, parish representative, (Tel: Cambridge 526157; e-mail: marywatkins999@live.com).

See also CAFOD’s web site.