Dear Friends,
Even though I have not written anything of substance for a while, I am impelled by the terrible destruction the fires that surround us have created for so many folks that I feel compelled to write a prayer for our use and to aid the victims of this horrible destruction. So many have lost their homes, places of work, and, of greatest sorrow, the loss of a loved one. And so, we pray…

O, Lord of our hearts, we pray to you during this time of disaster to come to the aid in soul and body of all our brothers and sisters. May the flames of your Holy Spirit give us the strength to endure with Hope this challenge which we face together. May the waters of your love quench not only the first but all sadness and help us to rebuild our homes, communities, and lives after this time of trial has ended.

May Our Blessed Lady wrap her mother’s arms around all who are suffering and be at our sides as we are challenged by this disaster.

St. Lawrence, who was a victim of flames, pray for us.