Bishop Listecki appeals for flood aid

August 22, 2007

To the priests, deacons, religious and faithful of the Diocese of La Crosse, my dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

During the weekend of August 18-19 the southern portions of our Diocese witnessed tremendous rainfalls that resulted in widespread flooding and destruction. From La Crosse south into Crawford County rainfall amounts of 12 to 15 inches have been reported. Urban street flooding, rural streams and rivers overflowing their banks, as well as massive mudslides from the bluffs in this area have resulted in much property loss and human suffering. In particular, the entire towns of Soldiers Grove and Gays Mills were flooded and at this writing Gays Mills continues to be inaccessible. The pastor at St. Mary’s in Gays Mills, Father Robert Chukwu, was evacuated from the rectory by boat!

We must reach out to our neighbors in need and provide whatever relief and assistance that we can. Jesus, the Good Samaritan, has given us his perfect example.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse will spearhead relief efforts to victims in the affected areas. In addition to providing services from the Catholic Charities office in La Crosse, plans are being made to establish temporary emergency relief locations at St. Patrick’s, Seneca or St. Mary’s, Viroqua. As soon as it is safe and water recedes from St. Mary’s Church in Gays Mills, Catholic Charities outreach efforts will be provided there.

Relief money will be needed. I have authorized that a special appeal be made in all parishes to all of the faithful of the Diocese for funds for our Catholic Charities to assist the victims of the flooding. The money collected will be going directly to the people afflicted in our Diocese. Please be generous. Funds may be made payable to and directed to: Catholic Charities Flood Relief, P. O. Box 266, La Crosse, WI 54602-0266.

If donations are made directly to the parish, a parish check may be forwarded to Catholic Charities at the above address.

Please remember those affected by this natural disaster in the intercessory prayers during Mass. May our Lord’s unlimited compassion be a source of consolation and hope.

Thank you for all that you do to demonstrate Our Lord’s love to those in need.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Rev. Jerome E. Listecki
Bishop of La Crosse