To the Parishioners and Friends of St. Benilde Parish:

Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

I extend my prayerful sympathies and thoughts to everyone affected by the devastating floods in Louisiana of recent days. I pray for those affected by this natural disaster, including those who have lost their homes and livelihoods; those who do not have electricity, food or clean water and, most importantly, for those who are injured, for those still in need of rescue and for those who have lost loved ones. Let us prayerfully remember those who died. My heart goes out in particular to those who now have had to endure such upheaval and destruction for the second time in recent months. I know that the wonderful spirit of community solidarity which sustained you then, will again give you the courage and determination to meet and deal with the present dreadful adversity.

Let us pay tribute to all the first responders, emergency services, and National Guard troops for their unstinting efforts and to all those working to bring relief to our neighbors. We are greatly indebted to them all. Let us assure everyone affected of our ongoing thoughts and prayers and of our unwavering commitment to provide the support they need in the aftermath of this disaster. May the Lord be close to us in this time of trial!