Jaro Archdiocese launches fund-raising drive for calamity victims
The Archdiocese of Jaro has launched a fund-raising campaign for victims of the separate calamities that have ravaged China and Myanmar (Burma).
In a circular to the clergy, heads of Church-run schools and congregations dated May 16, Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo appealed for the collection of financial help from parishes, educational institutions and religious congregations.
"With tangible contribution, let us express our sympathies, prayers and solidarity at this time of cyclone and earthquake disasters,"said Lagdameo in his circular.
Lagdameo said the contributions can be submitted to the Oeconomus Office or the Jaro Archdiocese Social Action Center (JASAC) office. These will be then sent to the victims through the Social Action Centers of the Episcopal Conferences of of Myanmar and Southwest China.
"Let generosity flow out of compassion for the victims of the destructive natural calamities and as a humble petition that we may be spared from similar destruction," said Lagdameo.
The May 2 cyclone in Myanmar left at least 128,000 dead and millions more homeless and facing hunger and disease.
International relief organizations and the United Nations have appealed for massive international help to prevent more loss of lives from the among the victims.
At least 50,000 were killed in the massive earthquake in China on May 12. The death toll is expected to rise with tens of thousands more missing.