Bishop's Letter - Queensland Floods, 11 January 2011 |
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My dear people After returning to Rockhampton via Mackay last Friday, I have been able to gain a better understanding of the devastation throughout Central Queensland. I am also aware of the effects of the flooding through the Diocese of Toowoomba and later into the Archdiocese of Brisbane. I have been gratified by the concern and support coming from Bishops, priests, people and dioceses from throughout Australia and beyond. Many messages have been received from overseas, including Cardinal Keith Patrick O’Brien, on behalf of the Bishops of Scotland, and Father Lawrence Freeman from England who had toured much of the area which has been flooded last year and many who had spent time in, or visited Central Queensland over the years. A much appreciated letter came from the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Guiseppe Lazzarotto, bearing condolences from Pope Benedict XVII to all who have been affected by the floods. The Holy Father authorised the Pontifical Council ‘Cor Unun’ to send $US 50,000 in relief funding which will be distributed through the St Vincent de Paul Society. The Apostolic Nuncio expressed his own support ‘in the sufferings and hopes of all our brothers and sisters who are going through this difficult time in their lives’. Cardinal George Pell of Sydney expressed his support for the victims of the floods and pledged a gift of $50,000 to assist in relief work. We are most grateful for this generous support. I wish to thank all who are offering support in any way, especially through prayer and urge all to contribute as generously as possible to allow those devastated by the flood to rebuild their dreams. Our prayers are with the people of Maryborough and Gympie and all the flood devastated area and our hearts and tears go out to people of Toowoomba and the Lockyer Valley on the tragedy which has unfolded upon them. Yours sincerely +Brian Heenan
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