Most Rev. Mark Brennan, Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, has approved a special collection to be held the weekend of August 13-14, 2022, in all parishes and missions throughout the diocese to support recovery efforts related to the series of natural disasters that have occurred in southern West Virginia and eastern Kentucky, resulting in dozens of deaths and the displacement of thousands.
“We have witnessed first-hand the destruction that flooding from severe weather has caused in our Mountain State. We have nearly 10 counties that have been under a state of emergency over the past month,” Bishop Brennan said. “I have spoken to my brother bishops in Kentucky who have detailed the destruction of entire communities in their dioceses. I urge the faithful to be visible disciples of Christ – significant examples of Him fully alive within us. Let us help our brothers and sisters in Christ through prayer and support, giving those who are suffering hope and peace as they rebuild their lives and, in many cases, honor the precious lives lost.”
Proceeds from this collection will support the humanitarian and recovery efforts of Catholic Charities as well as their partner agencies in both states.
Catholic Charities West Virginia and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Lexington are providing long-term recovery efforts. Their offices assist families long after other organizations have moved out. The role of Catholic Charities will last months and years as they help families
and individuals in the rebuilding process to restore safe, secure, and sanitary living conditions.
“Catholic Charities West Virginia is committed to being responsive and compassionate after a disaster event, giving help and hope,” said Beth Zarate, Catholic Charities West Virginia President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our goal is to return people to safe, clean and secure
housing. Our Disaster Services program is blessed to have many partners and supporters who come together to accomplish the daunting task of rebuilding homes and lives – for as little or as long as they need us.”
Checks should be made out to the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston with “Disaster Relief” on the memo line. Donations for this long-term disaster recovery effort can also be made throughout the month of August on the diocesan website at https://dwc.org/disaster-relief/.
