ADDRESS OF PAUL VI
TO THE MEMBERS OF THE CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES
OF THE NATIONAL CATHOLIC WELFARE CONFERENCE

Sunday, 8 March 1964

Beloved Sons and Daughters,

It is a source of great joy for Us to have this opportunity of addressing the people of the United States of America, a nation that is very close to Our heart. And We are particularly happy to do so at this time, when Our Venerable Brothers, the American Bishops, are making their annual appeal on behalf of the needy in other lands.

Your nation has been very sensitive to the sufferings and to the wants of the poor and the displaced of all races and creeds. For many years now, guided by the criterion of fraternal love, the Catholic Bishops have rallied support for their Relief Fund, and through their excellent organization, the Catholic Relief Services of the National Catholic Welfare Conference, they have dispersed timely assistance according to an ever expanding world-wide program.

We are well aware of all that the American people have done through their government and through numerous welfare agencies to ease the suffering of many millions of people in less fortunate areas of the world. The generosity of the American people of all faiths has won not only the gratitude of everyone but also their admiration and affection.

We shall offer Our fervent prayers to Almighty God that He will continue to bless in abundance the people of the United States of America who have been so constant in these works of mercy and love. And We extend to all of them our blessing and our fervent good wishes.