Massachusetts bishops urge government not to forget the poor

February 10, 2011

Massachusetts’ four bishops are urging state lawmakers to consider the plight of the poor as they contemplate budget cuts.

“In light of the extraordinary challenges our state faces and in view of our religious and moral responsibilities, we use this occasion to make a pledge and to issue a plea,” the bishops said in a February 9 statement. “Our pledge is that we will do all we can as Bishops to enable our institutions—parishes, Catholic Charities, health care facilities and schools— to continue to do their best in extending help to our neighbors in need. The persons we must serve include not only those defined statistically as poor, but also those recently unemployed who once enjoyed stability, and who constitute the newly fragile as a result of the recession’s impact.”

“Our plea is that in the decisions facing our elected officials, and in the discussions and actions of all citizens, there be preserved, for the sake of human dignity, a special place and regard for the vulnerable—those forced to choose between heat and food, and between shelter and clothing—those for whom the destination of every dollar is now so consequential.”

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Standing in Solidarity with All (Massachusetts Catholic Conference)
• Bishops urge state to stop cuts for poor (Boston Globe)