U.S. Bishops Chairman Calls for Prayer for those Impacted by California Wildfires

WASHINGTON—Bishop Frank J. Dewane ofVenice, Florida, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee onDomestic Justice and Human Development, asked for prayers for favorable weatherand assistance for those impacted by devastating fires raging through NorthernCalifornia.

Bishop Dewane's full statement follows:

"Do not fear: I am with you;
do not beanxious: I am your God.
I willstrengthen you, I will help you,
I will upholdyou with my victorious right hand."
– Isaiah 41:10

Today we ask for the intercession of Almighty God as wildfires rage inNorthern California. Already, these blazes have killed over 20 people,destroyed hundreds of houses and other buildings, and forced thousands ofindividuals to leave their homes and livelihoods behind in uncertainty. Highwinds and dry conditions have greatly increased the danger for the people inthis region.

As brave men and women respond to these disasters, battling the fires andhelping people to safety, we call upon God for improved weather, for theblessing of rain and favorable winds, to assist them. We pray that those who are missing or arestill in harm's way will be found and protected. May God grant eternal rest tothose who have died, and bring them into glory with him forever.

We pray, too, for generosity, care, and concern from neighbors andsurrounding communities for those who are grieving and displaced. Though we maybe weary from all that has taken place around the country in recent days, weknow that God cannot be outdone in generosity and charity. May he provide us with new wellsprings oflove to meet the needs of our brothers and sisters who are hurting so deeplytoday.

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Keywords: U.S. Conferenceof Catholic Bishops, USCCB, Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Committee on DomesticJustice and Human Development, wildfires, natural disaster, NorthernCalifornia, prayer, solidarity.

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