2002

28th November 2002
Bishops Express Solidarity with those Suffering Effects of Drought
Australia's Catholic Bishops wish to express solidarity with those suffering the devastating effects of drought in so many areas of the country and to endorse the call by national church leaders for a National Day of Prayer on Sunday, December 1.

We call on the faithful to pray for those afflicted by the drought and for those people engaged in helping to alleviate drought-related suffering.

Drought is a major national concern. It takes a great toll on the land, as well as on those who work the land and on the local communities which support them and rely on them.

We offer our prayers that those afflicted by the lack of rain will draw strength from God to see them through this difficult time.

We offer particular encouragement to rural families. Hardship brought on by drought can place an enormous strain on family relationships. Those experiencing such strains should not feel alone or abandoned or be afraid to ask for help.

We are mindful of and thankful for those people and agencies who work to alleviate the human suffering of drought in so many different ways.

In extending this type of help to those in need they are following Christ's example of how to show love for others:
"I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you made me welcome; naked and you clothed me, sick and you visited me, in prison and you came to see me." (Matthew 25:35-36)

The drought calls for a strong sense of solidarity within local communities themselves, across the rural and urban divide and including governments and their agencies, which are charged with the responsibility of providing prompt and effective relief.

Within the Church too, we must recognise the difficulties and suffering facing many of our brothers and sisters, especially in country parishes, and look for practical ways of supporting them.

It is timely to remember that many of the benefits enjoyed by city dwellers are provided by the endeavours of farmers and rural communities.

We urge all Australians to play their part in supporting the drought-affected by observing water restrictions and being aware of the scarcity of this precious resource.

The National Day of Prayer will take place on the first Sunday of Advent, and we ask that prayers for an end to the drought continue throughout this season, a traditional time of waiting and hope as Christians prepare for the birth of the Christ child at Christmas.

May the prayers being offered around the nation bring God's strength to those affected by drought and be a source of hope for them as they wait for the rain which will bring with it new life and abundance.

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