Message of the Superior General to the Brothers and Lay People from the Marist Provinces of América Central, United States and East Asia

Dear Marists of Champagnat,

Receive my warm greetings and blessings from the General House in Rome.

The members of the General Council and I have received the sad news of the various challenges that are being faced during this time, particularly following the disasters caused by the Hurricane ETA in Central America and the Typhoon VAMCO, especially in The Philippines.

Many poor people from Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, the south of México, and Florida in USA, have suffered the vast destruction of homes and livelihoods. All these countries have reported that, due to permanent and abundant rains, causing heavy flooding, some people have died or disappeared, and many others have lost their homes. The loss of life and the physical damage to property have been shocking.

The situation in The Philippines is also very difficult, considering that Vamco is already the fifth typhoon to strike in less than a month. Vast areas of land have been flooded and many people have been displaced or have lost their houses and belongings.

Added to this humanitarian crisis is the global threat of the Covid-19 pandemic which has created complications in receiving aid and assisting those who are sick. The difficulties seem at times overwhelming; we seek to perceive God’s presence in the midst of all this that is happening. And yet, we are reminded that God is with us as we care for each other.

Please know that here in Rome, we are thinking of you and your families, as well as our students and their families, particularly those people affected more directly by these disasters. We are holding you close during these difficult times. We hope and pray that the resources needed to rebuild the lives shattered by these events will come quickly and that you can build a future of hope.

In these difficult moments, Jesus tells us: “Do not be afraid! I am with you!”.  We are in contact, keeping in communion with our prayer and entrusting all of you, and those most affected by these crises, to Mary, our Good Mother and Ordinary Resource.

Fraternally,

Br. Ernesto Sánchez and General Council
Rome, 15th November 2020