From: Office of the Bishop
Dear Brother Priests,
As you are probably aware, on August 14 there was a devastating mudslide in Sierra Leone. More than 600 people are still missing, and the death toll is expected to rise.
In Freetown, over three hundred people were killed and much property was destroyed. Please join me in prayer for the victims of this disaster. We pray, too, for the safety of those who are leading the rescue efforts. I ask that you include these intentions in the General Intercessions at your parish this weekend.
The families affected need food, shelter, water and clothing. Catholic Relief Services, with its partner, Caritas, will provide food and assistance to surviving families. Therefore, I am asking that an emergency collection be taken at each of the parishes in the Diocese to assist the victims. As you deem most appropriate, you may take up a second collection, place a collection basket at the parish doors, or make a direct contribution from your parish. Funds should be submitted to CRS through the Diocese in the usual manner for second collections. The funds will be forwarded to CRS/Caritas to support humanitarian efforts in Sierra Leone.
I also respectfully ask that your parish use the various social media at your disposal to communicate the need for spiritual and material assistance to those who are suffering.
Thank you for your assistance as we respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Fraternally in Christ,
Bishop Burbidge
