As many of you know, one of our diocesan priests, J. Mark Spalding, is now the Bishop of Nashville. I contacted Bishop Spalding yesterday to check on him and the people of Nashville in light of the terrible loss of life and damage due to yesterday’s tornado. He thanked me for calling and told me that it looks like Assumption Church in Nashville, which is an historic structure, is the only church to receive significant damage. He said that the diocesan Catholic Charities will be handling community assistance. He invited prayers and donations to assist the diocese in its response.
Please join me in praying Bishop Spalding’s prayer for the people of Nashville: “Loving God, be with all those who are suffering in the aftermath of this violent storm. Grant peace to those who have died and comfort and strength to those who grieve them. May those who have suffered damages or lost homes and possessions find support in our brothers and sisters in Christ and consolation in the knowledge of your presence. Guard and guide first responders and aid workers, protect those who are most vulnerable, and keep us all safe in your unending love.
We ask this through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, whom even the winds and the sea obey. Amen.”
If you wish to help out with a donation, go to www.dioceseofnashville.com and then click on Bishop Spalding’s prayer in the aftermath of the tornado to find the link to donate.
