Dear Friends in Christ,

This past week, the record-breaking rains we have been experiencing for months now have brought devastating floods to communities in our Diocese. The towns of Eugowra and Molong have been hardest hit, but damage and disruption are impacting many others as well.

Less dramatically, but no less seriously, the lives and livelihoods of our farmers have already been suffering from slow inundation for weeks and months.

I know that Catholics are already reaching out with support and assistance to their neighbours; and that we are united in prayer for all affected and for good weather. We give thanks for the skill and courage of emergency service personnel whose work has saved lives. Our Diocesan agencies are looking ahead to how we can contribute to the recovery, when the waters recede and lives, homes, churches and schools will need rebuilding.

As we gather at Mass, on this Sunday of Christ the King, we remember especially our sisters and brothers who will be unable to do so, either because their church has been damaged, or because access is impossible. Our Lady of the Central West, pray for us.

 

+Michael McKenna

Bishop of Bathurst

16 November 2022