Collection to be taken up for flood victims

Published: January 8, 2016

En Español

Bishop Anthony B. Taylor announced a one-time, special collection to be taken up in all parishes in Arkansas Jan. 9-10 or Jan. 16-17 for victims of recent natural disasters. This collection is part of a nationwide effort to assist those affected by flooding and storms that began in December and continue to cause damage.

Photo courtesy
Catholic News Service,
Lisa Johnston

In a letter to be read at all Masses, the bishop wrote, "Your contributions will assist Catholic Charities USA, the official domestic relief agency of the U.S. Catholic Church, and its member agencies, including our own Catholic Charities of Arkansas, to respond to immediate emergency needs such as water, food, shelter and medical care and to the long-term recovery needs such as rebuilding homes."

Severe weather affected the southern and central United States in December, causing massive flooding that claimed the lives of 35 people in 13 states, according to CNN. 

Pope Francis asked Christians to pray for the victims of the natural disasters on Dec. 30. He prayed that "the Lord give comfort to those people and may fraternal solidarity help them in their needs," before concluding his weekly general audience. To learn more, read Catholic News Service.

Bishop Taylor noted that people who are poor will endure the greatest losses. "We know from experience that their best chance for recovery will require the charity of others. It is a blessing for them that the Catholic community, especially within our diocese, has a long and faithful tradition of responding to their needs with great generosity," he wrote Jan. 6. Read the letter in English and Spanish.

Donations may also be mailed directly to the diocese. Please note "Disaster Relief Collection" on the memo line of the check and address it to:

Disaster Relief
Finance Office
Diocese of Little Rock
P.O. Box 7565
Little Rock, AR 72217-7565