CNA Staff, Sep 29, 2020 / 09:57 am
Leaders of Catholic organizations in the United States have called on members of Congress to set aside political differences and pass a new COVID-19 relief package to alleviate the hardships caused by the ongoing pandemic.
"While we understand there are differences on how to proceed on the COVID-19 stimulus bill, the many needs of the present situation cry out for relief," said a September 25 letter signed by Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. bishops' conference, as well as heads of six Catholic educational, health care, and charitable organizations.
Catholic Charities USA, Catholic Relief Services, and the National Catholic Educational Association were among the groups represented in the letter, which was addressed to U.S. President Donald Trump, as well as party leaders in both the Senate and House of Representatives.
"Our nation is suffering a profound crisis, with over 200,000 lives lost, 30 million Americans relying on unemployment assistance, and health care workers continuing to fight COVID-19 surges," the signatories said. "For those in need here and abroad, as well as for the common good, our nation's leaders must do more."