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 discussed the significance of the annual collection for the Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa.

This collection, which usually takes place in August, serves as a valuable means of support for the Church in Africa. Individual dioceses accept offerings in special envelopes for this cause.

“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, according to the USCCB.

The money covers various aspects, including the sustenance of Catholic schools and covering operational costs associated with practicing the Catholic faith in the region.

"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. "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.”

A significant portion of the money raised supports church leaders, including both clergy and lay leaders and funds construction projects. Smaller portions of the funds are used to cover operational costs in specific areas, such as church communications, Catholic schools and child protection programs, for example. Several African countries -- including Zimbabwe, Sudan, Central African Republic and Uganda -- have benefited from the Solidarity Fund. 

Last year, the Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa awarded approximately $2.7 million across 91 grants.