USCCB President expresses support and prayer for those affected by the recent tsunami in Indonesia
December 23, 2018
Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston and President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, expresses support and prayer for those affected by the recent tsunami in Indonesia.
Cardinal DiNardo’ statement follows:
“Speaking for the bishops and the Catholic faithful of the United States, our prayers and condolences go out to all those who have died or have been injured by the tsunami that struck Indonesia in the area around the Sunda Strait, including Anyerbeach in the west coast area of West Java and Lampung in southern part of Sumatera last evening (Indonesia time).
The people of Indonesia have faced several major natural disasters this year alone, with the earthquake in July and the devastating quake and tidal wave that took so many lives in October.
Not only do our prayers go out to all who have been affected by this most recent natural disaster, which came without warning, but also our pledge of support and aid. Together with our Holy Father Pope Francis, I appeal for the ‘solidarity and the support of the International Community’ for our brothers and sisters. I know that Catholic Relief Services, Caritas Indonesia, and other local partners have teams on the ground responding and they will be providing relief and assistance.
As we prepare for the celebration of the birth of Christ, I ask all those in the Church here in the United States, to pray for healing, consolation, and relief to our sisters and brothers suffering in Indonesia.”