Bishop Peter Smith, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Subcommittee on the Church in Africa, recently issued a statement emphasizing the significance of the annual collection for the Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa. 

This collection, which typically takes place in August, serves as a valuable means of support for the Church in Africa.

“The Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa supports a partnership between the bishops of the United States and the bishops of Africa to help Catholics in some of the world’s most troubled regions grow in faith, produce new vocations, and bring the peace of God into war zones and other areas of deep suffering,” Smith said in the release. 

The funds contribute to various aspects, including the sustenance of Catholic schools and covering operational costs associated with practicing the Catholic faith in the region, according to the USCCB.

"All of these undertakings are done at the behest of the African bishops, who spend much time in prayer and discernment about where aid from Catholics in the United States is most needed in their pastoral ministries," Smith said, according to the USCCB's statement. "Parishioners who give to this collection can be certain that their support will help African Catholics who are in the greatest need, and who also have a great desire to serve Jesus.”

Of the funding allocated, a significant portion is dedicated to supporting church leaders, including both clergy and lay leaders, as well as funding construction projects. Additionally, smaller portions of the funds are utilized to cover operational costs in specific areas such as church communications, Catholic schools, and child protection programs, among others. Several African countries, including Zimbabwe, Sudan, Central African Republic, and Uganda, have benefitted from the Solidarity Fund. Last year, the Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa awarded approximately $2.7 million across 91 grants, according to the USCCB.