The outpouring of assistance for the victims of Hurricane Harvey in our area has been overwhelming.   All of those helping out and contributing remain in our thoughts and prayers.

I visited Catholic Charities today at 1225 Second Street. Sister Mary Vianney and one of her staff, Wendy, informed me of developments in the Sabine River area, which is the western-most boundary of our diocese. According to them almost 700 homes have been flooded, and the civil authorities expect over 1,000 homes to take in water following the cresting of the river. In partnership with a number of area churches, Catholic Charities is providing for the victims and their shelters.

The weather reports inform us that the Sabine River will crest at approximately 30 feet this weekend.  We are certainly keeping an alert watch for our brothers and sisters to the west.

What was left of Harvey’s eye passed over Carlyss very early this morning.   Father Luke reported minimal damage.   As a matter of fact, there was a morning Mass at St. Theresa’s!    The deans and many pastors continue to keep us informed of developments.

We are closely monitoring the approach of Harvey to the coast.   Authorities tell us that thus far water has not entered the churches in Cameron Parish.   We will know more following Harvey’s landfall sometime Wednesday.