In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, Bishop Gerald Barnes called on parishes to take a second collection the weekend of Sept. 2-3. “This has created an unprecedented and catastrophic weather event of immense proportions,” Bishop Barnes wrote. “Our hearts and prayers go out to all the victims that have lost loved ones and all who have lost homes, businesses and properties.”
At press time, the Diocesan Mission Office reported donations for Hurrican Harvey relief were at $179,405.01. If you would like to make a donation you can contact the Office of Mission at (909) 475-5130.
The series of natural disasters striking the Western Hemisphere in September continued with Hurricanes Irma and Maria, and earthquakes that struck Mexico on Sept. 7 (Chiapas) and Sept. 19 (Mexico City), with subsequent damaging aftershocks. Many of the faithful in the Diocese have loved ones in Mexico City and the earthquake has brought anxiety and a desire to help among locals. The day after the Mexico City quake, Sister Hortensia Del Villar, S.A.C., said her office received many calls from people in the Diocese seeking information about hard hit areas of the city, names of those injured and how they could get clothing and other supplies to those in need.
“Even if it’s small they want to send something to help,” said Sr. Del Villar, Director of Community Services and Outreach for the Diocese.
Petra Alexander, Director of Hispanic Affairs for the Diocese, said the Mexico earthquakes have evoked painful memories of previous quakes there “when you lost everything,” but they have also led the people to turn to their faith.
“The Sanctuary [of Our Lady of Guadalupe] is full of people,” Alexander said. “People are there praying, giving thanks and making offerings.”
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is accepting donations for Mexico earthquake relief online at https://crs.org. You can mail your donation to Catholic Relief Services, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21297-0303.
Catholic Charities USA is accepting donations for Puetro Rice hurrican relief online at https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/CCUSADISASTER. You can mail your donation to Catholic Charities USA, P.O. Box 170166, Baltimore, MD 21297-1066.