The mandatory evacuation order affecting thousands of Wyoming Valley residents includes many Diocesan priests and parishioners who have been forced to leave their rectories, churches and homes in order to seek safety and shelter elsewhere. State, county and city officials have implored citizens residing in the affected areas to adhere to the mandatory evacuation order. Recognizing that some Churches in the Scranton Diocese remain under mandatory evacuation, the opportunity for regularly scheduled Masses to be celebrated this weekend may not be possible.
At all times, an individual’s ability to fulfill his or her obligation to attend Sunday Mass (i.e., Saturday Vigil or Sunday Mass) can be influenced by reasons of poor health or adverse weather conditions (e.g., blizzard, hurricane or flood). Catholics who are able to safely attend Mass at other churches are encouraged to do so. A directory of churches and Mass times is available on the Diocese of Scranton website at: www.dioceseofscranton.org. See “Find a Parish and Mass Times,” which provides a list of parishes organized alphabetically by location.
Bishop Joseph C. Bambera has issued a letter to the faithful, seeki God’s blessing and protection, and requesting prayers for all those affected by the flooding and those who are providing assistance.
The Bishop has asked that this letter be read at all Masses this weekend, and that a special petition be included during the Prayer of the Faithful.
The letter and petition follow:
September 9, 2011
Dear Friends in Christ,
As we gather in prayer this weekend, we do so recalling the tragedy endured by our nation ten years ago when hijacked planes in New York, Virginia and Pennsylvania killed thousands.
But, we also gather today representing the faithful of the Diocese of Scranton, ever mindful that countless numbers of our own families, neighbors and friends, along with our priests and fellow parishioners, are dealing with the immediate aftermath of the intense rains which saturated and flooded communities and neighborhoods throughout northeastern and north central Pennsylvania.
The loss of and damage to cherished homes and treasured churches impacts its victims physically, emotionally and spiritually. As the Church, our support for our brothers and sisters who are hurting will bring a healing and helping presence in the flood ravaged communities throughout our Diocese. I have been gratified and humbled by the efforts of so many friends, families and strangers who have gathered to empty homes, collect belongings and fill sand-bags and by those who have provided rides, meals and shelter.
As with any disaster, people outside the affected areas may quickly go back to their normal routine, but victims do not. It is important for us to continue to provide resources, including helping hands, listening ears and shoulders to help another to carry his or her burdens. Some of us are gifted with multiple resources, such as finances, while others posses an expertise in a particular trade, such as construction or plumbing. It is incumbent upon us to continue to seek out those who feel they have nowhere to turn for help and to use our gifts well and wisely as we recover, restore and rebuild. I pledge to do whatever we can as a Diocese and as a community of believers in Jesus to pray, serve and support one another.
For all who are suffering because of the flood and the damage it has caused, I pray for God’s continued and protection and blessing over you. While we wait to see what the immediate future will bring, we grieve with those who face great loss, we yearn for respite and peace and we pray to God for strength and courage.
Faithfully yours in Christ,
† Joseph C. Bambera
Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L.
Bishop of Scranton
Petition:
Let us pray for all who have suffered injury, damage to property, and disruption of normal activities because of the recent major flooding. May they know the comfort and consolation of the Lord, and the care and assistance of their brothers and sisters in the Church. Let us pray to the Lord.
Diocese Offers Guidance to Pastors
On Thursday, Sept. 8, the Diocese offered guidance to all pastors, with particular concern for those affected by the flooding. Pastors were asked to be mindful of their safety and the well-being of their staffs and parishioners, and to take precautionary measures regarding parish property. They were advised to secure the Holy Eucharist, sacramental records, computer and other files in a safe place; to extinguish all candles; to turn off power; and to move vehicles to higher ground, if possible. Also, a Red Cross safety checklist was provided.
Pastors not directly affected by the flooding have been asked to consider offering their facilities as shelters or staging areas, provided they are able and equipped to do so.
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