July 11, 2025 - Archbishop Authorizes Voluntary Special Collection for Response to Texas Floods

In response to the devastating floods in over twenty counties in Texas where there has been enormous destruction and a great loss of life, Catholic Charities USA is seeking assistance for relief efforts in response to the floods. 

The floods have killed 121 people with the expectation that number could increase. This includes the deaths of at least 27 children and camp counselors from Camp Mystic, a girls' summer camp. Currently, more than 160 people are still missing.

Recognizing the immediate and growing needs, Archbishop Richard G. Henning is asking pastors to voluntarily consider a special collection to support Catholic Charities relief efforts. Parishes may determine other ways to lend support along with prayers and special intentions for overcoming this immense challenge. Pastors are encouraged to hold the collection at their discretion during July and August 2025. Parishioners are asked to address their checks to their local parish, with “Texas Flood Relief” in the memo. The Archdiocese will then send 100% of the donations to Catholic Charities USA.

The Archbishop said, “In solidarity with our brothers and sisters suffering from the effects of the Texas flood, we pray for all who have perished and for their grieving loved ones. May the communities and families devastated by the floods find strength and hope in their faith. As we look for ways to assist those who continue to suffer the effects of the disaster, I have encouraged our parishes to consider taking up a collection for the relief work of Catholic Charities USA.”

Catholic Charities USA notes, “Families are displaced and in urgent need of assistance. Our local Catholic Charities agencies are on the ground, providing essential aid to those affected. 100% of donations go directly to helping survivors recover.”

In extending his prayers for all impacted, Pope Leo said, “I would like to express sincere condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones, in particular their daughters, who were at the summer camp, in the disaster caused by flooding of the Guadalupe River in Texas in the United States. We pray for them.”

The Archdiocese of Boston has a proud history of stepping forward to assist people in need. Whether in response to the recent wildfires in Southern California, earthquakes in Haiti, Tsunami in Japan, relief efforts in response to the fires in Maui or hurricane relief in the southern parts of the United States, we have provided necessary resources to stem the suffering.