As the people off the Gulf Coast just begin to sift through the damage brought by Hurricane Harvey, we, tragically, must attempt to comprehend the damage inflicted by Hurricane Irma. People in the Caribbean, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Florida have felt Hurricane Irma's full force.
We lift up in prayer all of those who have been impacted, asking almighty God to guide the steady hands of first responders and to widen the hearts of all who are able to be generous to neighbors facing danger, grief, or displacement of any kind due to the disaster.
St. Paul referred to our journey of faith as a race to be run (1 Cor. 9:24-27). At a time like this, when our endurance is tested, we implore God to direct us to yet unknown reserves of strength and human compassion for those suffering so deeply. May our manifestations of love and solidarity be lasting signs in the midst of this crisis.
As with Hurricane Harvey, the Archdiocese of New Orleans will be working closely with affected local dioceses, Catholic relief entities and with other organization to assess the needs on the ground and offer assistance. If you would like to make a monetary gift, you may mail your donation direction to Archbishop Aymond (7887 Walmsley Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70125) or you may give online via credit card at
www.stbenilde.org/irma-relief.
Let us join in prayer for those who have been impacted by Hurricane Irma.