CRS Rice Bowl

Lent is a time of repentance and of uniting ourselves to Christ during his 40 days in the desert. During this sacred season, CRS Rice Bowl—Catholic Relief Services’ Lenten faith-in-action program—invites us to reflect on how caring for our neighbor is caring for Christ. For I was hungry and you gave me food, thirsty and you gave me drink (Matthew 25:35).

This Lent, I invite all parishes throughout the Archdiocese to participate in CRS Rice Bowl. Your participation and parishioner contributions support our sisters and brothers experiencing poverty and hunger both here in our local church in Western Oregon and around the world. 

Seventy-five percent of the alms given through CRS Rice Bowl will go to Catholic Relief Services to support humanitarian aid projects that bring vital hope and lifesaving aid to millions of people in more than 100 countries. 

Twenty-five percent of CRS Rice Bowl donations will stay here in our (arch)diocese to help those suffering from poverty and hunger in our own community.  

Thank you for making Lenten sacrifices that will lift up our sisters and brothers living in poverty. Together, we can respond to Christ’s call to care for those in need and ensure everyone, near and far, has enough nutritious food to thrive. 

CRS Rice Bowl is Catholic Relief Services’ Lenten program for families and faith communities in the United States who want to put their faith into action. Through CRS Rice Bowl, participants are invited to hear stories about their brothers and sisters in need around the world, and devote their Lenten prayers, fasting and alms to change the lives of those who suffer in poverty.

Participants journey through the 40 days of Lent with a collection of daily reflections and activities included in the CRS Rice Bowl calendar and on the mobile app.

75% of funds are used for international relief and development projects. Through the CRS Rice Bowl Small Grants Program, 25% of all money given is made available for projects within the Archdiocese of Portland that address hunger and poverty.  
Application 
Guidelines and Criteria

Join with us in the journey!