The Conference of Catholic Bishops of Cuba (COCC) issued a message in which it expresses its deep concern over the severe damage caused by Hurricane Melissa in the eastern region of the country.
“We have experienced a catastrophe of enormous proportions”points out the statement and adds:
“The situation of national tragedy in which the cyclone leaves us now adds to the already difficult daily reality of our people, with shortages of primary goods, prolonged and frequent power outages, viruses and diseases spreading increasingly.”
The prelates lamented the material losses suffered by thousands of affected families and highlighted that More than a million people have been harmed to varying degrees.
In numerous towns, the flooding has been considerable and many homes have been destroyed or with severe damage to roofs and basic belongings.
“We thank God that, so far, no loss of human life has been reported”
The message also points out that in several towns “all the telephone or electricity poles are on the ground” and that in the mountainous areas there are landscapes “devastated by the wind.”
Among the material damages, the bishops mentioned damage to temples and religious institutions, including the National Sanctuary of the Virgin of Charity of Cobrewhich presents broken stained glass, windows and deterioration in the exterior paint, although without structural damage.
The COCC thanked God that No human losses have been reported so far.and recognized the work of those who offered shelter to vulnerable people during the cyclone.
In their statement, the bishops They appealed to the solidarity of sister Churches and Caritas, as well as Cubans inside and outside the country.to contribute with food, clothing, mattresses, roofs and essential items.
“Everything will be needed,” the statement emphasizes.
Likewise, the Cuban bishops They appreciated the words of Pope Leo XIV, who asked for prayers and help for Jamaica and Cubaand the closeness expressed by the bishops of Honduras.
Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre needs help due to Melissa’s damage
