To: Archbishop Jose S Palma, D.D
President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines

Your Grace,

At this time of grave human suffering and uncertainty, it is with sadness that I write to you to convey my deepest condolences following the devastating aftermath of super Typhoon Haiyan.

I wish to assure you on behalf of myself and the Australian Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the Australian Catholic community that you and your people have been consistently in our prayers.

In the challenging months ahead, the world must act together to ensure the security and livelihoods of our brothers and sisters in the Philippines. The Catholic Church in Australia together with Caritas Australia is committed to being our expression of concrete solidarity on the ground in the Philippines, providing emergency aid and working to secure long-term opportunities for those affected by the typhoon through members of the Caritas network and social action centres in the Philippines.

Today and in the months ahead, we pray especially for those lives already lost and for those endangered by the growing crisis and that our Lord grants you and the people of the Philippines peace and strength.

Please be assured of our ongoing prayer support and any practical assistance you might need, as we work together to reach the most vulnerable communities at this difficult time.

I wish you every grace and blessing.

Fraternally yours in our Lord Jesus Christ,

Yours sincerely,

Archbishop Denis Hart
President, Australian Catholic Bishops Conference