Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Santo Domingo (Agenzia Fides) - "Solidarity is for every day and always. But the inestimable damages caused by tropical storm Noel over the past few days in vast areas of our country, call us to a time of special intense solidarity" the Catholic Bishops of the Dominican Republic say in a statement following the passage of the storm Noel which left 85 dead and 48 missing, 136 towns still isolated, 46 roads and bridges destroyed and 66,608 homeless.
"It is time to show solidarity as a nation" the Bishops say recalling that the government is dealing with the emergency with numerous civil institutions, the local Church and other religious communities. However the Bishops say the damage caused is so great that “first, spontaneous solidarity will not be sufficient, we must assist our afflicted brothers and sisters for some time to come". The Bishops suggest to plans: "A” for immediate aid and “ B” for long term rebuilding.
Since the storm struck efforts have been made in every diocese to assist those in need, but the Bishops say solidarity must continue and they urge Catholics and men and women of goodwill" to participate generously in this task, as a sign of brotherhood and unity among all Dominicans." In the diocese of San Juan de la Maguana, many families are still sheltering in schools, churches and other public places. Many communities are still isolated, over 80 per cent of the crops and many heads of cattle have been lost.
Bishop Rafael Felipe of the diocese of Barahona, said over 5,000 people have been offered shelter in parishes, in churches of other denominations and in relief centres. The Bishop has also opened his home to a few people in need.
The Bishops' Conference launched programme to request assistance from other countries and cooperation on the part of Catholic bodies, national and foreign companies, dioceses in other countries which have always helped after natural disasters. In every diocese there is a social pastoral committee and a Caritas office which channel national and foreign relief aid. Parishes in the affected areas have launched an emergency aid programme distributing food rations, blankets, water and medicine.
On Sunday 4 November Cardinal Nicolás di Jesús López Rodríguez celebrated a Mass for the repose of the souls of the victims and spiritual comfort for those affected. In his homily he appealed to all social sectors to give a massive response of solidarity considering that "this is a national challenge and we must all tackle it together". (RG) (Agenzia Fides 5/11/2007: righe 37, parole 500)
