Appeal for prayers for Philippines after typhoon and earthquake

National Director of Missio in the Philippines, Fr Socrates Mesiona, MSP, has called for prayer after his country was hit by a typhoon and earthquake earlier this week.

In an email sent to Mgr Canon James Cronin, National Director of Missio in England and Wales, Fr Socrates described the last few days as "very difficult".

"Houses and farms were lost, damaged and destroyed" he wrote. "In fact, I was scheduled to give a mission animation talk to one of the dioceses in that area as part of the World Mission Sunday celebration but I was informed that it had to be postponed because there are still places which are not passable by car because bridges and roads are either damaged or destroyed."

"Most heart-breaking is that many old churches (20 so far in the report), built mostly in the 1800's, were either turned into rubble or damaged beyond repair. The people are still experiencing the trauma of the earthquake because of the aftershocks that continue to haunt them."

"At this very trying time we have to keep our faith in God; thus, your prayers are very much needed. Thank you!"

Source: Missio