On July 9, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez celebrated Mass for those impacted by the floods in Kerr County and surrounding areas.
“We are heartbroken because so many of those who perished were innocent children. In our own Archdiocese, we have lost children and adults,” Archbishop Vásquez said. “We pray for all those who have lost their lives in this devastating disaster and commend them to the mercy and compassion of our loving God.”
Individuals gathered together at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston to offer love, support and prayers for the victims and their families during this tragedy.
Archbishop Vásquez shared that faith does not deny the painful experiences of life but is an anchor strengthening us. “We must bring comfort to our friends, neighbors, and even strangers. We must be the ones who stand side by side to help others rebuild their lives.”
He also encouraged the faithful to pray for the first responders and volunteers, who struggle with the stress of seeing so much loss of life, carrying that burden.
“Christ is the one who consoles us and strengthens us to carry the pain of the cross,” Archbishop Vásquez said. He reminded those in attendance that the wounds of the Risen Christ help us to see the suffering in the world with the eyes of hope, and he called upon the Blessed Virgin Mary as Our Lady of Sorrows to be a mother to us all during this difficult time.
