Going to Church in a hurricane

Huricane Irene is bearing down on millions of Americans tonight from North Carolina clean all the way up to Maine by the end of Sunday.  First and foremost our prayers for all who will be impacted and that all will be safe.  This storm promises to be a bit of a tough one, primarily because of the twin water events of rain and wind driven ocean water moving east to west toward the coast of almost a dozen states.

Over at the Deacon's Bench, which is linked to my website, Deacon Greg asks the question: should Catholics attend Mass during a hurricane.  He posted statements from the three dioceses of New York state that are in the cone of possible impact.  Obviously safety is the first consideration with a storm approaching.  The Church surely does not want anyone to be placed in harm's way in their sincere desire to celebrate the Mass and receive the Holy Euchaist.  Here is the statement issued by Archbishop Timothy Dolan:

Archbishop Dolan Urges Caution in Face of Hurricane
August 26, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 26, 2011



ARCHBISHOP DOLAN URGES CAUTION IN FACE OF HURRICANE

Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan, Archbishop of New York, released the following statement today regarding Hurricane Irene:

“With all of our friends and neighbors here in the community we love, we in the Catholic family are united in prayer for protection from the impending storm, and eager to offer refuge and help to those who may be endangered or harmed.

Catholics take Sunday mass very seriously, but the Church never asks us to risk our health or safety to get to church on the Lord’s Day. Please be careful! Do not take any chance with your safety and health if things get dangerous.

Our extensive network of parishes, schools, Catholic Charities, health care institutions, and residential facilities are cooperating fully with our public safety officials, and stand ready to assist in all efforts of outreach and help.”

+Most Reverend Timothy M. Dolan
Archbishop of New York

I remember the morning of Sunday, August 28th 2005 as Katrina was rapidly approaching.  It was mid morning before we made the call to leave.  As I drove past our Church while running errands it dawned on me it was close to Mass time.  I saw Father outside and he decided to have a quick Mass because about 50 of us showed up; many dressed in clothes soiled during hurricane preps.

So whether the folks in New York or Boston or Philadelphia get to go to Mass or not, may we not forget to pray for all impacted by Hurricane Irene.

May God bless and protect everyone in the path of the storm!