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Philippine-Australia-Saipan Province
Solidarity and prayer for Victoria’s |
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As I write this brief report on Wednesday morning, 18th February, the number of people who have died in Victoria’s worst bush fires ever is now 200. We continue to remember and pray for all who have died in the raging bushfires. We remember their families and friends, and all who are experiencing loss and grief at this time. There is so much pain and suffering!
Sunday 22 February 2009 has been declared a National Day of Mourning! |
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More than 1000 homes are known to be destroyed, people left homeless, and lost everything. They now rely on the solidarity and generous help of the wider community and the Government. Victoria will be forever grateful to the amazing fire fighters and emergency workers, and the many wonderful volunteers who continue to work and give themselves so totally for others.
Our Sr. Doreen’s niece, Libby and family who lived in the Kinglake area have lost their home and are now living at her brother’s. Our thoughts and prayer are especially with them as they, together with all other victims, slowly come to terms with their enormous loss, and begin to rebuild their lives and look to the future with hope. |
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People wanting to help financially are able to do so through the Red Cross: www.redcross.org.au; the Salvation Army: www.salvationarmy.org.au; St. Vincent de Paul: www.vinnies.org.au; and the Archbishop’s Charitable Fund Bushfire Appeal, Melbourne. |
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Our friends, the monks at Tarrawarra have also suffered considerable loss in terms of their cattle and burnt property but they themselves, thank God, were not harmed, and their monastery and Church have not been affected. You can visit www.cistercian.org.au for more details. The photos below were taken by Sr. Mary on Sunday 15th when she joined the Tarrawarra community for the celebration of the Eucharist at Yarra Glen. The Abbot, Dom David Tomlins, gave a very moving homily which you can read on the same website. |
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Sr. Mary La Bruna sjbp |
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