Leaders ask for prayers, help after tornadoes devastate Kentucky
Survivors of more than 30 tornadoes that ripped through several states Friday and Saturday are now picking through the rubble of their communities, homes and, lives, according to media reports.
Amid the reports, there’s been an outpouring of prayers across social media as recovery efforts continue, and leaders across the country—and even across the pond—are calling on all to share their petitions.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said during a 5 a.m. press conference Saturday that the devastation in western Kentucky is likely to go down as “most significant tornado event in Kentucky’s history.” He estimated during a press conference later in the day that more than 100 people died as a result of the tornadoes.
“Remember, each of these lives are children of God, irreplaceable to their families and their communities,” he said. “We will make it through this. We will rebuild. We are strong, resilient people.”
Pope Francis
Pope Francis offers his prayers for all who are suffering because of the storms in the U.S. and for all who are lending a helping hand. “He offers heartfelt prayers that almighty God will grant eternal peace to those who have died, comfort to those who mourn their loss, and strength to all those affected by this immense tragedy,” reads the message from Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville
Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville is planning the best way the archdiocese can help and will communicate that to parishes, according to Cecelia Price, the chief communications officer for the archdiocese. Early on Sunday, Kurtz tweeted out his appreciation for the message from Pope Francis.
Salvation Army
With a presence in every ZIP code in the country, The Salvation Army is uniquely positioned to respond with a clear understanding of each impacted area’s needs.
“In the aftermath of sudden and extreme natural disasters such as these, The Salvation Army is able to respond quickly to the most affected communities,” said Jeff Jellets, Emergency Disaster Services Director for The Salvation Army’s USA Southern Territory. “Those who experience such sudden tragedy are faced with extreme physical and emotional challenges. We are dedicated to providing essential services such as food, water, shelter, and emotional and spiritual care for survivors and first responders for as long as we are needed.”
USCCB
“During the Advent season where we await in joyful anticipation for the birth of our Lord, we pray for those who have been injured, for those who have lost their lives, and for their grieving families and communities,” said Archbishop José Gomez of Los Angeles and Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City in a Dec. 11 statement.
Gomez, the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Coakley, the chair of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, called the whole situation “heartbreaking.”
Kentucky Treasurer Allison Ball
Kentucky Treasurer Allison Ball urged everyone to pray for the dozens of residents who are still missing.
“I am heartbroken to see the terrifying, once in a generation destruction in Mayfield, Western KY & all the areas hit. @AsaJamesSwan & I are praying for the families who lost their loved ones & their homes in this tragic event. We’re praying for miracles for the unaccounted for.”
Kentucky State Senator Whitney Westerfield
“Absolutely catastrophic damage in Mayfield. Be in prayer for everyone here,” tweeted Kentucky State Senator Whitney Westerfield.
Please continue to pray for those affected by the storms as relief efforts are ongoing.
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