Archbishop Lori offers support for those affected by shutdown

As the shutdown of the federal government dragged into its fourth week, Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori issued a public statement Oct. 28, calling for support for those affected and offered the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s support.

“As the effects of the prolonged government shutdown continue to unfold across the nation, my heart turns to Maryland and to those who are already struggling and will feel its effects most deeply in the Archdiocese of Baltimore,” Archbishop Lori wrote in his statement sent by email to members of the archdiocese and published on the archdiocese’s website.

Archbishop Lori noted the financial effects on many in Maryland, who work federal jobs in the state or nearby Washington, D.C.

The shutdown also is expected to affect people who receive benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program with benefits due to run out Nov. 1.

“Government shutdowns have far-reaching consequences, but they take a particularly heavy toll on the most vulnerable among us – families living paycheck to paycheck, parents worried about feeding their children, and seniors already balancing the cost of medications and groceries,” Archbishop Lori said. “When vital government services are interrupted or delayed, the result is more than an inconvenience – it can mean hunger, anxiety and hardship for our brothers and sisters in need.”

The archbishop said that at moments like this, “we are reminded that our faith is not lived in isolation from the realities of the world around us. As disciples of Christ, we are called to stand in solidarity with those who suffer, to walk alongside them and to be a source of hope in times of uncertainty.”

Archbishop Lori said Catholic agencies, such as Catholic Charities of Baltimore and St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore, and parishes throughout the archdiocese would be ready to assist.

“I wish to assure those in our archdiocese – particularly those affected by this shutdown – that the church stands ready to help,” he wrote. “Our ministries remain open and active, providing care and support across central and western Maryland.”  

Archbishop Lori said parish food pantries and community outreach and assistance programs are open to anyone in need of groceries or meals, and mental health and counseling services through Catholic Charities and partners are available for those experiencing distress or isolation during this time. 

“I encourage anyone in need to reach out to these ministries without hesitation,” he wrote. “No one should face this hardship alone. To those who are able, I also ask you to consider how you might extend help to others – through your prayers, volunteer services, organizing a food or diaper drive at your parish or contributions to your parish, Catholic Charities or the St. Vincent de Paul Society. This is a moment to live out the Gospel with renewed compassion and generosity.

“In times of uncertainty, the Lord reminds us, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28). May Christ, who knows our every struggle, bring peace to anxious hearts, provide for those in need, and strengthen us in faith and love for one another.

“Let us continue to be people of hope – united in prayer, steadfast in charity, and faithful in our care for the most vulnerable among us.”

To read the archbishop’s full statement, visit Archbishop Lori Urges Action to Support Those Most Affected by Shutdown 

The archdiocese also has been supporting federal workers who were displaced by DOGE cuts earlier this year by offering employment opportunities at archbalt.org/employment

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