The Diocese of Allentown is committed to supporting those in need, both locally and worldwide. Navigate to our various mission initiatives below or using the righthand menu.
World Mission Sunday
World Mission Sunday is a special day that unites Catholics worldwide in prayer, solidarity, and support for the Church’s mission efforts. At Mass that Sunday, we recommit ourselves to our common Baptismal vocation to be missionaries through prayer, participation in the Eucharist, and by giving generously to the collection.
Go to the webpage for more information here.
Missionary Cooperative Program
The Missionary Cooperative Program (MCP) allows men and women from various congregations, organizations, and dioceses to appeal to Catholics in the Diocese of Allentown for prayers and financial support. People in our parishes have the opportunity to learn about and support missions happening at home and abroad.
Go to the webpage for more information here.
Missionary Childhood Association
The Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) program serves schools and religious education programs in the Diocese of Allentown by fostering in children a missionary spirit and leadership. Children are motivated to share their faith and material goods with other children who are most in need. Through our materials and resources, we seek to foster a missionary vocation in children so they may take part in the life of the church as missionary disciples.
Go to the webpage for more information here.
Operation Rice Bowl
Fifty years ago, Catholics in our own Diocese of Allentown organized to bring help to families facing famine in Africa. That help came in the form of a small cardboard box, marking the beginning of “Operation Rice Bowl.” Today, as we celebrate Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Rice Bowl’s 50th anniversary, the program is a tradition for millions of Catholics in the United States who continue to answer the Gospel call, supporting families experiencing hunger around the world.
Go to the webpage for more information here.
Diocesan Local Poverty Relief Fund
Diocesan Poverty Relief grants, which are funded by a special annual second collection, support a wide range of local projects and services that alleviate and address poverty in Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Northampton, and Schuylkill counties.
Go to the webpage for more information here.
Diocesan and National Collections
Click the PDF under "Resources" to view the calendar of second collections and beneficiaries for 2025.
