U.S. Bishops Conference Executive Committee Issues Statement in Wake of Catastrophic Hurricanes; Encourage Faithful to Respond with Prayers and Support

WASHINGTON—In the wakeof two devastating hurricanes in just two weeks, the Executive Committee of theU.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops released the following statement:

"With lives andlivelihoods still at risk in Texas, Florida, the Virgin Islands and throughoutthe Caribbean, we pray for the safety and care of human life in the wake of twocatastrophic hurricanes. The massive scale of the dual disasters and the effectit has on communities, families and individuals cannot be fully comprehended oradequately addressed in the immediate aftermath of the storms.

At this time of initialrecovery, we mourn the loss of life, homes and other property, and the harm tothe natural environment, and we pray for all those affected and in need ofassistance. We also pray for the safety of, and in thanksgiving for, the firstresponders who are risking their lives at this very moment in care for their neighbors,especially those who are elderly, sick, homeless, or otherwise already in needof special assistance.

We share Pope Francis'strust that the Catholic faithful here in the United States will respond to theneeds presented by these disasters with a 'vast outpouring of solidarity andmutual aid in the best traditions of the nation.' We encourage the faithful torespond generously with prayers, financial support, and for those who have theopportunity, the volunteering of time and talents in support of those in need."

For more information onhow you can help, please go to: https://www.usccb.org/catholic-giving/opportunities-for-giving/emergency-collections-and-disaster-relief.cfm

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