WASHINGTON—Bishop Frank J. Dewane of
Venice, Florida, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on
Domestic Justice and Human Development, asked for prayers for favorable weather
and assistance for those impacted by devastating fires raging through Northern
California.

Bishop Dewane’s full statement follows:

“Do not fear: I am with you;
do not be
anxious: I am your God.
I will
strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold
you with my victorious right hand.”
– Isaiah 41:10

Today we ask for the intercession of Almighty God as wildfires rage in
Northern California. Already, these blazes have killed over 20 people,
destroyed hundreds of houses and other buildings, and forced thousands of
individuals to leave their homes and livelihoods behind in uncertainty. High
winds and dry conditions have greatly increased the danger for the people in
this region.

As brave men and women respond to these disasters, battling the fires and
helping people to safety, we call upon God for improved weather, for the
blessing of rain and favorable winds, to assist them. We pray that those who are missing or are
still in harm’s way will be found and protected. May God grant eternal rest to
those who have died, and bring them into glory with him forever.

We pray, too, for generosity, care, and concern from neighbors and
surrounding communities for those who are grieving and displaced. Though we may
be weary from all that has taken place around the country in recent days, we
know that God cannot be outdone in generosity and charity. May he provide us with new wellsprings of
love to meet the needs of our brothers and sisters who are hurting so deeply
today.

—
Keywords: U.S. Conference
of Catholic Bishops, USCCB, Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Committee on Domestic
Justice and Human Development, wildfires, natural disaster, Northern
California, prayer, solidarity.

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Media Contact:
Judy
Keane
202-541-3200

Source:: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops