The following comes from an October 3 Orange County Catholic article written by Bishop Kevin Vann:

Just over a month ago, a major earthquake struck in the area of Norcia, Italy and nearly destroyed the town of Amatrice in that region. This is all of the more tragedy because the town was full of people gathered that weekend for the annual “festa.”

Soon after the disaster, my friend John Allen, editor of Crux, wrote a wonderful column on Italian life, culture and faith, especially in light of the devastating earthquake. John wrote about an outreach, then, to the town of Amatrice, which could come from the proceeds of dinners and gatherings around “Pasta Amatriciana,” which would then go to help the earthquake relief fund for the people of Amatrice.

The article inspired us to plan our own Pasta Amatriciana event here on Christ Cathedral Campus, at the Cultural Center, on Oct. 14, from 6 to 9 p.m. John Allen will be the Master Ceremonies, and this event is also co-sponsored by Archbishop Gomez and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. This event will have a national focus and involve video messages from Cardinal Sean O’Malley, Cardinal Donald Wuerl, and others. The proceeds from this evening will go to Catholic Relief Services, which in turn will send the funds to “Caritas Italia.” Fall and winter will soon be coming along in the mountain area of Amatrice, so this event is very timely. Currently hundreds of families are living in tents. They need better transitional housing for the winter months.

I am personally inviting one and all to this event, which not only will be a great evening of food and faith and celebration, but most of all, will link us directly in the communion of Faith with those in great need in Italy. Most importantly, our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has asked each Diocese to sponsor a major event of mercy for this Year of Mercy. I cannot think of a better gesture of mercy, solidarity and faith than October 14. Benvenuto, tutti tra noi il 14 Ottobre! Dio vi benedica sempre! (Welcome all on October 14 , and God Bless you always!)

For details visit www.rcbo.org/earthquake.