Bishops appeal for prayers and support for Philippines

Bishops of England and Wales, at this week's Bishops' Conference plenary, called for prayers to be offered for the people of the Philippines, following the intense storm last weekend. Early indications are that over 10,000 people have died and over 10 million affected by Typhoon Haiyan, with up to a million made homeless.

Mass will be offered for the Philippines and the Filipino community in this country at Westminster Cathedral at 1730 on Friday 15 November.

Aid agencies predict humanitarian needs will increase as the devastation becomes apparent in more remote areas. As part of the aid response, CAFOD is organising an emergency collection in parishes this weekend.

Archbishop Vincent Nichols, President of the Bishops' Conference, said: "So many parishes benefit from the lively faith and contribution of the Filipino community and we all benefit from their significant contribution to hospitals and the caring services in this country. Now, in their hour of need, we must support them in prayer and generosity."

Source: CCN

To support Aid to the Church in Need's emergency work in the Philippines see: www.acnuk.org/donate2.php