When natural disasters strike around the country a group of “second responders” mobilizes in the Archdiocese of Chicago sending out utility buckets filled with much-needed cleaning supplies to affected areas. That group, Hope’s on the Way, was formed by local deacons following Hurricane Katrina. With all of the natural disasters around the country this year, they have sent 250 buckets to Puerto Rico, 320 to Houston, 300 to Baton Rouge and 120 to North Carolina. They are looking for donations from parishes to help fill more buckets. Parishes that participate will receive buckets to fill with items such as disposable gloves and heavy-duty trash bags. Those who would prefer to donate money can buy the buckets themselves for $5 each, or give monetary donations to cover the cost of cleaning supplies. It takes about $20 to buy the supplies included in each bucket. For information or to donate, visit www.hopesontheway.org.
Pope expresses closeness to Mexican resort city devastated by hurricane After dozens of people were killed and billions of dollars in damages were suffered due to a hurricane that hit Mexico’s Pacific coast, Pope Francis expressed his condolences and prayed that Christians would contribute, in a spirit of charity, to the reconstruction of affected areas.
Archdiocese welcomes new permanent deacons Nineteen permanent deacons were ordained May 13 at Holy Name Cathedral. Cardinal Cupich celebrated the ordination Mass.
Hurricane Ian leaves catastrophe in Florida, Cuba, millions without power It's too early to tell the extent of Hurricane Ian's damage in the Catholic dioceses of Venice and St. Petersburg or the rest of the Sunshine State for that matter, but President Joe Biden in a Sept. 29 news conference said it is likely to rank as "one of the deadliest hurricanes in Florida history."