08/11/2026
Brothers and sisters, let us unite in prayer.
Each day, events around the world can shake our hearts and test our faith. Some tragedies receive great attention, while others pass almost unnoticed. Yet we are one human family, and the suffering of one is the suffering of all.
Venezuela, Colombia, China, Japan, the Philippines, Afghanistan, India, the United States, and many other nations are suffering from earthquakes, floods, wildfires, droughts, extreme heat, war, injustice, hatred, and division. Our world also carries the deep wounds of abortion, su***de, depression, loneliness, and many other consequences of sin and human brokenness.
Here at St. Andrew’s, many of our brothers and sisters have loved ones directly affected by these tragedies. Let us pray each day—at home, with our families, and here in our church—for an end to sin and violence, the conversion of hearts, and the healing of our world.
Fr. Diego and I are both from Colombia, and many of you have kindly asked about our families. My family lives relatively close to the area most affected, but thanks be to God, they are safe. Fr. Diego Arce lives very close to the affected area and was in Pereira on Monday (the most affected city). His family is also safe, although the experience was understandably frightening. In the video accompanying this message, Fr. Diego shares a few about his experience during the earthquake.
We continue to pray for those who lost their lives and for everyone severely affected. May God comfort those who mourn, strengthen rescuers and caregivers, and open our hearts to care generously for one another.
Even in the darkness, we remain people of hope, for Christ is our light and our peace.
Lord, have mercy on us and on the whole world. Amen.
