USCCB - (AEE) - Our Work in Latvia

Our Work in Latvia

Since 1990, generous American Catholics have provided millions of dollars for projects which were submitted to our office by the bishops of Latvia. These efforts have helped the Church in Latvia rebuild itself and begin to live and serve in freedom. The following are just a few examples of past, ongoing, and new projects sponsored through our office.

With your help, we have …

…Purchased vehicles for communities of religious women
Several communities of religious women in Latvia have requested and received funds to purchase vehicles, which greatly help them in their missionary and catechetical ministries.

… Helped with installation of central heating at Jelgava Diocesan Center
In a country like Latvia heating systems are crucial for the normal operation of any building. Our support of this Center provided them with a secure home-base from which to fulfill their duties to the people of the diocese.

… Provide necessary equipment for the tribunal of the Metropolitan See of Riga
We have provided funds for the purchase of computers, and phone/fax equipment for the Diocesan Tribunal and hope to continue our support of their activities in this important pastoral service. Request submitted: $10,000

… Contributed to the restoration of the archdiocesan cathedral in Riga
The restoration of the cathedral in Riga means more than just providing a space for the archdiocese to come together as a body and celebrate the liturgy—it is a powerful symbol and witness that the Church in Latvia is being restored and renewed.

…Provided funds to complete the process of academic state accreditation for the seminary in Riga.
During the communist regime this seminary was the only Roman Catholic Seminary allowed to function in the territory of the former Soviet Union. Admissions were under strict quotas, and the secret service paid special attention to everyone affiliated with it. Now the seminary has become a state-accredited academic institution, awarding the equivalent of a state university diploma.

… Gave support for operation and renovation of the Catholic high school in Riga
Funds are requested to start the renovation of the newly established (1992) minor seminary in Riga. Currently, there are 200 students. Money is being requested for the initial and most immediate needs so that school can begin in the fall of 2000.

… and we continue to …

… Support operating expenses of the TV Studio Emmanuel in Riga
This Catholic radio station based in Riga has been providing quality Catholic programming to Latvia for several years. We have supported it from the beginning, providing funds for vehicles, computer equipment, and salaries, and hope to continue. Request submitted: $84,000

… Sponsor education for seminarians in Rome
We sponsored three seminarians at the Pontifical Lateran Seminary in Rome in 2002 and hope to continue our support throughout the duration of their program, as well as help others in similar programs. Request submitted: $30,000

We hope in the future to …

… Help with the construction of the parish church in Dobele
Many parishes are still in great need for a place to worship, including this parish in western Latvia in the Jelgava diocese. Request submitted: $39,000

…Continue to support Latvian seminarians at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, OH
This is the second generation of Latvian seminarians at Josephinum. These men are sent here by their bishops to work toward their doctorate and master’s degrees. One of the previous students who was awarded such a theological degree is now the dean of the seminary in Riga.