Archbishop Carlson calls for special collection to aid victims of Typhoon Haiyan

November 12, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information contact: 

Angie SheltonCommunity Relations SpecialistPhone: 314-792-7101

Archbishop Robert J. Carlson has called for a special collection to aid those affected by Typhoon Haiyan.

In a letter to priests of the archdiocese, Archbishop Carlson said "The gravity of the devastation in the Philippines, Vietnam and Asia by Super Typhoon Haiyan becomes more evident to us each day. Thousands have lost their lives and millions have been affected. The survivors are seriously threatened by the lack of pure water, food, medicine and shelter. Homes, businesses and essential services have been destroyed."

On Sunday Pope Francis urged the faithful to pray for the typhoon's victims, and to offer generous assistance to those impacted by the typhoon. At the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholic Relief Services asked for a special collection to aid the victims, and provide shelter, essential living supplies, and clean water and sanitation.

Archbishop Carlson's letter called for contributions to the Catholic Relief Services disaster relief fund during a special collection this weekend at parishes across the archdiocese. Donations may be sent to the Archdiocesan Finance Office, Attention: Catholic Relief Services – Typhoon Haiyan Disaster Relief, 20 Archbishop May Drive, St. Louis, MO 63119.