Cover their lodging at the Francisco de Vitoria University in Madrid.

March 31, 2011. Madrid, Spain. As Pope John Paul II and now Pope Benedict XVI have repeatedly observed, the strongest growth and most lively dynamism in the Catholic Church is taking place in the developing world, especially in Africa and Asia. At the head of these growing dioceses stand dedicated bishops who are witnessing the Holy Spirit’s action all around them, not only in the numerical growth of believers, but also in the enthusiasm of new converts, the joy of the youth, and the flowering of vocations to the priesthood and religious life. At the same time, they face many challenges, not least of which is the lack of financial resources.

As Spain gears up for World Youth Day, scheduled for August 16-20 in Madrid, the Francisco de Vitoria University will be hosting 190 bishops from developing countries free of charge, as a small way to support them in their work.

As an act of solidarity with these bishops, the “Adopt a Bishop” fund was created to gather the funds necessary for their lodging expenses. Each donor is asked to sponsor a bishop with a gift of €350. Donors can then ask to be put in touch with their “adopted” bishop to be partners in prayer, and can also request information from the fundraising office about his home diocese and pastoral work. 

Those who would like to support these bishops are asked to prayerfully consider making a one-time donation, whether it is for the full amount of €350 (approximately $500) or a smaller amount. Spreading the word about the fundraiser is also an excellent way to help.

Transfer Information

International bank transfers can be made through the following bank: Banco de Santander Central Hispano.
The bank’s address is:  Avda. España 24 y 26. C.P. 28220 Majadahonda – Madrid - España

The account holder or “titular de la cuenta” is: Legionarios de Cristo
The Legionaries’ address (“domicilio”) is: C/ Camarines 12, CP 2803, Madrid, Spain. 
Legionaries’ phone number: (0034) 91 357 93 80

The account number for international transfers is:
IBAN – ES 3400496095132916074069

Please write “obispos” or “bishops” in the observations line so that the donation is earmarked for the bishops.

Questions?  Ask Ana Mezquita at amezquita@arcol.org.