‘You Are Not Alone’: Philippine Bishop Assures Storm Victims of the Church’s Presence

The Diocese of Antipolo in the Philippines has assured communities affected by severe weather that they are not facing the crisis alone, as the local Church prepares to respond to the needs of families displaced or affected by the storms.

In a message to the diocese on August 10,  Bishop Ruperto Santos expressed solidarity with those who have lost homes and livelihoods, as well as families seeking refuge in evacuation centers.

“These are indeed difficult days for many of our people as we continue to face the effects of severe weather,” the bishop said. He offered prayers particularly for communities that have been affected, displaced, or forced to seek shelter in evacuation centers.

The bishop also called for special attention to children, the elderly, the sick, and others who may be particularly vulnerable during emergencies.

“To everyone who has been affected by the storms: please know that you are not alone. The Church stands with you,” Bishop Santos said.

He also expressed gratitude and concern for rescuers, volunteers, government personnel, social workers and parish workers involved in responding to the crisis, praying that they would be given strength, wisdom, courage and compassion.

The bishop said parishes and parish communities are ready to respond according to the needs of affected residents and in coordination with local authorities. He also asked priests and parish communities to remain attentive, particularly in areas where evacuation and emergency assistance may become necessary.

The Antipolo Social Action Center continues to coordinate relief and assistance with parishes and communities most affected by the severe weather.

The bishop emphasized that churches have a role that goes beyond providing places for worship, particularly when communities are confronted by disasters.

“Our churches are not merely places where we gather to pray. In times of crisis, they must also become places where people experience the mercy, compassion, and concrete presence of Christ,” he said.

Bishop Santos appealed to people to help one another, share what they can, pray for one another, and check on vulnerable neighbors, stressing that no family should feel forgotten or abandoned.

He likewise encouraged those able to provide assistance to support legitimate relief efforts through parishes and the diocesan social action ministry.

“Even a small act of generosity can bring great hope to someone who has lost almost everything,” the bishop said.

Drawing on Psalm 46, he reminded the faithful that while storms and difficult circumstances may surround them, God remains present amid the turmoil.

At least 19 people have died, and hundreds of thousands of families have been affected or displaced by heavy rains and flooding brought by the southwest monsoon, or Habagat, and successive tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay across the country.

He ended his message by invoking Nuestra Señora de la Paz y Buen Viaje, asking her maternal protection over families and communities, and urging