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Bishop Anthony B. Taylor released the following letter, April 5, 2023, regarding a special collection to be taken up for the Disaster Relief Fund to assist those impacted by recent tornadoes with relief and long-term recovery services through Catholic Charities of Arkansas.

"Dear Friends in Christ,

"Friday, March 31 is a day we will remember for a long time. The tornadoes that swept across our state that afternoon and evening left behind a path of destruction that shocked us.

Photo courtesy Malea Hargett / Arkansas Catholic
Parishioner Susan Lockhart sorts toothpaste at the donation station April 3 at Christ the King Church in Little Rock to aid those affected by the March 31 tornado that destroyed parts of west Little Rock.

"Lives were lost that we mourn. Others were injured for whom we pray to the Lord for healing. And there are all the neighborhoods and communities that were crushed in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Sherwood, Jacksonville, Cabot and Wynne.

"Together we face a long recovery process, which is why we will be taking up a collection in all our parishes the weekend of April 15-16 for Catholic Charities of Arkansas’ Disaster Relief Fund to assist the individuals and families impacted by the tornadoes with relief and long-term casework services.

"We are grateful to everyone who has already reached out to offer assistance. We will provide updates about the needs and ways to help in Arkansas Catholic, our diocesan newspaper, and on the diocesan website and Facebook page.

"As the body of Christ in Arkansas, we can make a difference by supporting Catholic Charities of Arkansas’ tornado relief and long-term recovery efforts.

"Thank you for responding as generously as you can. Let us also continue to lift up in prayer all who are facing the daunting task of recovery and rebuilding. May our actions and prayers provide hope and comfort to them as signs of God‘s love.

"Yours in the Risen Lord,
+Anthony B. Taylor
Bishop of Little Rock"