January 8, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As you know, the tsunami in South Asia has left thousands upon thousands dead and uprooted millions from their homes. The death toll is expected to rise. There is a severe shortage of healthy water, food, and medical supplies and services. As followers of Jesus Christ, we cannot fail to express our solidarity with those who have suffered such terrible losses.

Our solidarity is manifested above all in prayer. I would ask you to continue to include the victims of this terrible disaster in your daily prayer.

Our solidarity is also manifested in practical acts of charity. Given the severity of this situation, I ask for your cooperation in contributing to a special second collection next weekend, January 15 and 16, 2005, at all the Masses. For those who wish to contribute by check, please make the check payable to your parish and mark the check “Tsunami Emergency.” In turn, the diocese will forward the collected funds to The Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in Baltimore to assist that reputable Catholic organization in addressing this severe crisis situation.

Yes, during this holy Christmas season, we have seen the Infant Savior lying in the manger, with arms outstretched to receive the love of our hearts. He is now even more visibly present in each victim of the disaster in South Asia. Let us reach out to Him by offering them the support of our prayers and assistance..

United with you in this outreach of love, I remain,

Faithfully in Christ,

Most Reverend Paul S. Loverde
Bishop of Arlington