Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, Virginia, released a statement Monday, offering prayer and support for victims of the tragic flash flooding in Texas that occurred over Independence Day weekend.
He began by saying that he joins the rest of his diocese “in fervent prayer for all the victims, for those who are still missing, and all those whose lives have been affected by the catastrophic flash floods” in Central Texas.
Central Texas floods over the weekend resulted in at least 104 deaths, including 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp. After heavy rainfall the night of July 3, flooding began in the early morning hours of July 4 around the Guadalupe River.
The affected area, part of what is sometimes called “Flash Flood Alley,” has long experienced flooding. However, this event was far more severe than normal, according to Texas Public Radio. The river rose an astounding 26 feet in 45 minutes, as CatholicVote previously reported.
“In moments of profound crisis and tragedy such as this one for the people of Central Texas, we take consolation in the knowledge of God’s infinite love for every human person,” Bishop Burbidge said in the statement. “In this time of sorrow may God bring comfort, healing, and strength to the entire community.”
Bishop Burbidge encouraged Catholics and other people of goodwill to donate to the flood relief efforts of Catholic Charities USA, which has assisted with evacuation and provided shelter, food, water, and other necessary supplies to those impacted by the flooding.
The Virginia bishop is not the only Catholic leader who has offered prayers for the situation and all those affected by it. On Sunday, Pope Leo also offered his condolences to those who had lost loved ones.
>> Catholics respond to Texas flooding tragedy with prayer and support <<
