Water for Life priority of CCW International Commission

by Gwen Christiansen

How often have you heard “It’s a small world!”? That saying has been around for a while and rings true more today than ever. Gaps between third world countries and the US are closing in. We as believers are charged with the responsibility to be informed and to inform others of the many opportunities to aid, pray, and act, on some of the difficult issues that plague the nations. Being respectful and positive mentors in a developing world while trying to help mend areas with inhumane conditions is what Christ asks of us when He said, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matt. 25:40)

Every year the New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women International Commission picks a project to concentrate on through the year. This year’s main focus is the “Water for Life Project,” a branch of Catholic Relief Services (CRS). The Water for Life project is so beneficial for many who are in need. The Council of Catholic Women promotes the project for its direct approach to gaining potable water to those who are without.

Our Holy Father John Paul II states, “People thirst for love, for fraternal charity, but there are also peoples who are thirsty for the water necessary for life.” Water is a basic need for all of us. We need clean water available to us daily.

Imagine 10 million children dying each day throughout the world from contaminated water! (Life Outreach International) In the Midwest we are blest with 10,000 lakes! It is hard for us to imagine being without water, for it’s all around us, from the rivers and lakes to the closest tap.

Is it possible that we can supply the world with safe drinkable water? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’! There are the means to do such even in the driest areas of Africa. It’s called well digging. Catholic Relief Services join forces with technicians around the globe who know the field of well drilling in various areas of the world. From Brazil, Africa to Guatemala wells are going in. What is it that we can do? Pray, contribute, and educate others about such life preserving ministries. And, say a prayer of gratitude for the abundance of water that refreshes you.

Catholic Relief Services/Water for Life tsunami project update

In the tsunami affected area, CRS focus is on assistance with water, shelter, food, sanitation, and trauma counseling. With word of the disaster the CRS had immediately moved in and was distributing water and aid, implementing the Water for Life project. Contributors made it possible for CRS to be there. To keep abreast of the continued aid that CRS is doing in this ravaged part of the world, visit www.catholicrelief.org. If you missed the collection basket the Sunday it went around you may want to send your check for the Water for Life project to your parish CCW president; she will forward it on.

Gwen Christiansen is from New Ulm and is the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women International Concerns Commission Chair.