Bishop Michael Barber, SJ, asks us to prayerfully consider the following request for assistance from Bishop Larry Silva of the Diocese of Honolulu. (Bishop Silva, who was born in Honolulu, was raised in San Lorenzo and ordained a priest of the Oakland Diocese.)
"Today our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the devastating wildfires that have ravaged the island of Maui. As a community of faith, we are called to come together and provide unwavering support to those who are suffering...
"In 2008, the Hawaii Catholic Community Foundation (HCCF) was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corpotion to support our parish and school communities....You can make a tax-deductible contribution by visiting the following link: https://tinyurl.com/MauiCatholic. Every donation, no matter the amount, will play a crucial role in helping to rebuild lives and restore hope.
"Let us also remember the power of prayer. In our collective prayers, we ask for strength, resilience, and healing for the fire victims and their families. May we find the grace to rebuild our families, their livelihoods, and the physical structures that were lost. Let our faith guide us as we navigate the challenges ahead, knowing that with the grace of God, all things are possible.
"Maria Lanakila (Our Lady of Victory), pray for us!"
-- Bishop Larry Silva, Diocese of Honolulu