Prayers and Assistance for Hurricane Victims

RCL Benziger has asked that the victims of Hurricane Sandy be remembered in special prayer throughout the Salesian Conference being held in Saint Louis, Missouri, November 2-4. All conference participants will be provided with copies of the _Prayer for Protection during a Storm_ (from Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers). In addition, the 5 PM Mass on Saturday, November 3, will be offered for the storm victims and for those working to provide aid and assistance in the wake of the storm. Fr. Ken McKenna, OSFS, will preside. Sincerely, Peter M. Esposito President

Prayer for Hurricane Victims

RCL Benziger wishes to encourage our partners in ministry to pray for those suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. *Loving God, maker of heaven and earth, protect us in your love and mercy. Send the Spirit of Jesus to be with us to still our fears and give us confidence.* *In the stormy waters, Jesus reassured his disciples by his presence, calmed the storm and strengthened their faith. Guard us from harm during this storm and renew our faith to serve you faithfully. Give us the courage to face all difficulties and the wisdom to see the ways your Spirit binds us together in mutual assistance.* *With confidence we make our prayer through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.* -Prayer for Protection During a Storm, _Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers_

Assistance for Hurricane Victims

As of early Oct. 30, at least 21 deaths in the United States have been reported following the devastating impact of Hurricane Sandy on the East Coast. This follows 67 deaths that occurred in the Caribbean, which was in the hurricane’s path late last week. More than seven million U.S. residents are still without power, and flooding is still having an impact on many areas. Additionally, resulting fires in New York have damaged many homes in residential areas. Catholic Charities USA and its local agencies is prepared for a response to needs of hurricane victims. Father Larry Snyder, president of CCUSA, said, “Since Hurricane Katrina, we have focused on being prepared for future disasters. Not only are we early responders, but our presence in the community also puts us in a position to be able to quickly assess and provide support in the long-term.” Relief and recovery services are provided at the local level by Catholic Charities agencies that provide critical services including emergency food, shelter, direct financial assistance, counseling, and support. These services are provided regardless of religion, race, creed, or socio-economic status. For more information or to make a donation to help those in need, visit "Catholic Charities USA":http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/, the national office for Catholic Charities agencies nationwide. In Haiti and Cuba, where more than 20,000 homes were destroyed, church workers are already in the cleanup stage. Some 90 percent of Catholic churches in Cuba suffered damage. To assist victims in the Caribbean, please go to "www.crs.org":http://www.crs.org/ to learn about the relief efforts led by Catholic Relief Services, the overseas relief arm of the U.S. Catholic bishops. On Oct. 29, Pope Benedict made a point of praying for the millions of people who are being affected by Hurricane Sandy: “I wish to assure you of my closeness and my recollection of those who have been affected by this natural disaster, while I invite everyone to prayer and solidarity, in order to alleviate the pain of the families of the victims and offer support to the thousands of people who have been hurt.”