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 who had to be rescued from their homes and for those who have lost loved ones. Let us prayerfully remember those who have 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.

As a people who received so generously from others in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, we know firsthand what it means to feel the love and support of our neighbors.

To show our solidarity with all those who continue to suffer in the aftermath of this historic flooding event in our state, we will have a Special Second Collection at all Masses this weekend (August 20th and 21st) to support the flood relief efforts of Catholic Charities and the local bishop. As one family, I appeal to you for your support and contributions towards helping the victims of the recent floods. I ask that you give and that you give generously …. Give without counting cost; give in the manner in which the Lord Jesus has so abundantly given to each of us. I am also asking every ministry and organization of St. Benilde Church and School to prayerfully consider making a donation from their treasury to this Special Second Collection. If you would like to give online via a credit card, please visit www.stbenilde.org/flood-relief.

As Archbishop Aymond notes in his letter: “Our sisters and brothers in the Dioceses of Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Lake Charles have been greatly affected by recent flooding. Lives have been taken, homes and personal possessions have been destroyed. Now they face the challenge of re-building their loves, with the help of God.”

This is an opportunity for us to be the hearts and hands of Jesus to so many who are suffering and in dire need. I thank you in advance for your generous contributions.

Please continue to pray for all those affected by this flood and also for those who are assisting in the recovery effort. May God continue to protect all from any harm and danger, and comfort all those who are afflicted! Our Lady of Prompt Succor … Hasten to Help Us!