In an Aug. 16 letter to priests, Arlington Bishop Michael F.
Burbidge asked that an emergency collection be taken at each of the parishes in
the Diocese of Arlington to assist the victims in Sierra Leone after flooding
and a major mudslide.
“As you are probably aware, on Aug. 14 there was a devastating
mudslide in Sierra Leone,” Bishop Burbidge said. “More than 600 people are
still missing, and the death toll is expected to rise. In Freetown, over 300
people were killed and much property was destroyed.
“Please join me in prayer for the victims of this disaster,”
Bishop Burbidge said. “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,”
Bishop Burbidge said. “Catholic Relief Services, with its partner, Caritas,
will provide food and assistance to surviving families. 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,” Bishop Burbidge said. “Thank you for
your assistance as we respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters in
Christ.”
