Massachusetts and Olympia bishops issue Super Bowl giving challenge

As the New England Patriots prepare for their Super Bowl match-up with the Seattle Seahawks, the bishops of the Episcopal dioceses of Massachusetts and Olympia have issued a challenge to their respective dioceses to a competition of their own--this one charitable.

“As many of us prepare to cheer the New England Patriots on to victory in the Super Bowl on Feb. 1, we Super Bowl challenge Click on the photo to donate to Team Patriots for Episcopal Relief and Development. have before us an opportunity to remember those in need around the world,” the Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates, Bishop of the Diocese of Massachusetts, wrote in a message to the diocese (see text below).

“Bishop Greg Rickel of the Diocese of Olympia and I are challenging our respective dioceses to see which can donate the most to Episcopal Relief and Development before kick-off on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 6:30 p.m. (Eastern).  I hope the people of Massachusetts will give generously,” Gates wrote.

Donors can click here to join the challenge.  Episcopal Relief and Development will announce the results.

A bulletin insert is attached below for use in parishes.

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Dear Friends,

As many of us prepare to cheer the New England Patriots on to victory in the Super Bowl on Feb. 1, we have before us an opportunity to remember those in need around the world.

Bishop Greg Rickel of the Diocese of Olympia and I are challenging our respective dioceses to see which can donate the most to Episcopal Relief and Development before kick-off on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 6:30 p.m. (Eastern).  I hope the people of Massachusetts will give generously.

Donors can click here to join the challenge.  Episcopal Relief and Development will announce the results after kick-off.

Go Patriots!

Blessings,

The Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates