Prayers for Puerto Rico
We ask for your prayers today for all those dealing with the destruction left by Hurricane Fiona in our Companion Diocese of Puerto Rico.
Hurricane Fiona knocked out power across Puerto Rico on Sept. 18 while dropping as much as 30 inches of rain in some parts and causing “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding,” according to the National Weather Service. The storm is just the latest natural disaster to impact the U.S. territory, which was devastated five years ago by Hurricane Maria. (Read the full story from Episcopal News Service.)
Deacon Deb Goldfeder, the Chair of our Companion Diocese Committee, has been in touch with our friends in Puerto Rico. The Rev. Angel Rivera Rodriguez reports:
The situation in Puerto Rico is complicated by the accumulated rains of more than 30 inches, the flooding is extensive and thousands are in shelters today. Most of the parishioners in my Deanery are safe, but the situation is difficult in other parts of the island.The Bishop is working intensely together with the Diocesan Emergency Committee to help the victims of the floods.We ask for your prayers for the people who have lost everything.
The Rev. Canon Rafael Zorilla, OP, also sent an email, thanking us for our prayers.
Deacon Deb offers this prayer (Psalm 46: 1-4):
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the mountains be toppled into the depths of the sea;
Though its waters rage and foam,
and though the mountains tremble at its tumult.
The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
You can help the people of Puerto Rico by donating to Episcopal Relief & Development's Hurricane Fund.
story posted September 20, 2022
Tags: News
