Here is a video from the Bishops of Victoria for the Australian Bishops’ Conference National Bushfire Appeal to be held around Australia this weekend.
We are very aware that many Parishes in our Diocese have already taken, or are in the process of, taking up collections as part of our Diocesan response to the bushfires in our East Gippsland Mission launched earlier this month. The monies from the Diocesan-wide appeal are being split between Vinnies Victoria (SVDP) and the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund (GERF). Both organisations are providing support on the ground in East Gippsland.
Vinnies Victoria Bushfire Appeal
Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund
Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,
Some of our people are really facing a challenging new year. Many of us have watched in horror as fires burned across the country.
Our hearts ache for all of those affected by this tragedy—most especially those who have lost their lives, but all the families who have been displaced, towns and communities damaged, livelihoods destroyed and the enormous loss of Australian bushland and wildlife.
Even today we are witnessing the effects of these fires with smoke clouding our usually clear skies, residents still unable to return to their homes and local communities slowly starting to pick up the pieces.
Parishes have been involved in the recovery efforts; they’ve helped in many ways, including welcoming the displaced into their homes. There is something truly remarkable, and exceptionally humbling, about the spirit of our shared humanity that gives its all without question.
In Victoria, we know well the effects such fires can have. The Black Saturday fires showed us that the effects of this tragedy will be felt far and wide—and for years to come.
Our neighbours needed us then, and they need us again now.
Thank you for contributing to today’s special collection, which will go directly towards the Vinnies bushfire appeal. Your support will help to bring relief to the many areas in need across our State.
Despite the anguish caused by this ongoing crisis, God’s love and comfort is present. It’s here and now, and it comes through our own witness of love towards our neighbours.
Let us give generously, in whatever way that we can.
We also support our brothers and sisters in prayer, we entrust them to the care of Christ, and to the love and protection of Our Lady Help of Christians, Patroness of Australia.
God bless you and thank you.
Archbishop Peter A Comensoli
Archbishop of Melbourne
Bishop Paul B Bird
Bishop of Ballarat
Bishop Shane Mackinlay
Bishop of Sandhurst
Bishop Patrick O’Regan
Bishop of Sale
