When I was growing up outside of Boston and went to St. Cecilia’s Parish in Ashland, MA with my grandfather, every year there was a paper bowl with some interesting photos of kids from around the world. The center had a slot for money. I don’t remember much else, other than I always put some in, and felt like I was helping something – or, someone.

I’ve since learned it’s part of a Lenten campaign called Operation Rice Bowl from Catholic Charities that began 35 years ago. It aims to help those in need – here and around the world – by asking that families forsake meat for Lent, deposit the saved money, and gather together to cook vegetarian recipes provided.  The idea is simple and profound at the same time. Operation Rice Bowl also enables people to learn more about the places the money goes to:  Bolivia, Ethiopia, and beyond. I chatted with program Director Beth Martin, and you can learn more by going to:  http://orb.crs.org/