Flood Appeal - Mackay Region - 2008 |
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My dear people I write concerning the devastating floods that have affected so many of our sisters and brothers in the region of Mackay. It is only a short time since the same disaster struck Emerald and the surrounding districts. I was privileged to spend last Thursday in Mackay with Leesa Jeffcoat, the Director of Catholic Education. In visits to families whose homes had been inundated, to schools and parish offices and the Francis of Assisi Home. I saw the evidence of painful losses and the sadness of beautiful places transformed into a ruined reminder of what had been treasured. I also saw the courage and resilience of the people I met and heard the stories of generous cooperation in tackling the aftermath. I experienced the hope that will lead the people of Mackay to work together to renew and rebuild their city. Many offers of assistance are coming in and I write to encourage all the parishes and communities to contribute to the Mackay Deanery Flood Appeal. I invite you to consider contributing to a special collection which will be taken up on the weekend of 1st / 2nd March or 8th / 9th March which will be administered by the Dean of Mackay, Father Don White, and a small Committee to distribute the fund. Some may wish to send a donation directly to Father Don White, while some will have already contributed to other appeals, like the Premiers Appeal. You may choose to send your gift directly to Emerald, through Father Peter Tonti. I am aware that Centacare and the St Vincent de Paul Society in Mackay and Emerald are part of a strong relief effort, together with the Red Cross. May God bless those who have suffered so much and all who are assisting them. Brian Heenan
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