Last month I reflected with you on the impact of the bushfires in New South Wales. This month our attention is focused on the aftermath of devastating Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. Of course, severe weather events such as these have always been a part of human history, but scientists are telling us that they will increase in regularity and intensity as climate change continues to affect our planet.

The human toll of the Philippines typhoon has been truly shocking. According to figures released by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Council, Typhoon Haiyan has affected at least 10 million people, including the deaths of at least 4000 people. As of last week, about 400,000 were in 1500 centres for displaced people and more than 4 million were living with friends and relatives (Fides News).

The Divine Word Missionaries have a strong presence in the Philippines, in parishes, schools, universities and hospitals, with a particular focus on working with the poorest and most marginalised. Consequently, our confreres have been on the ground, with those affected by this terrible disaster and assessing, in an organised and planned way, what relief is needed, and how best to get it to the people who need it most. The AUS Province sent an immediate donation to assist and also began a public appeal via envelopes in our parishes and our secure online donation facility. We are thankful to all who have donated to assist our Filipino brothers and sisters. The recovery will be a long and difficult process for them, as they seek to rebuild whole towns and villages and restore lost livelihoods. Long after the headlines pass the work will go on. Through our appeal, we hope to be able to continue sending funds to support them in this rebuilding. Should you feel able to join us in this effort, you can donate by clicking here.

I have been humbled by the faith shown by so many in the midst of such a great disaster. Not seeking to blame God or question God’s love for them, we have seen reports of people who have lost everything, clinging to their faith, in the sure knowledge that God is with them in their suffering and will bring them to new life.

At a Mass in Manila shortly after the Taiphoon, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle told his fellow Filipinos the words that many of those affected so desperately needed to hear: “You are not alone”.

“A time of disaster is a time to help others,” he said. “It is a time to console and embrace our neighbours. It is a time to show a love that is stronger than an earthquake or a typhoon. With this love, human lives will be restored and our nation rebuilt.”

Amen!