A message sent to typhoon victims

Manila cardinal reaches out to survivors saying "You are not alone"

People pray at the Quiapo Church in Manila where Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle called for a day of silence and fasting for solidarity with those affected. Photo:Antonio Gonsalves/CNA.

Antonio Gonsalves of the Catholic News Agency writes a story about a Manila cardinal's reaction to the disaster of Typhoon Haiyan, known as Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle called for a day of silence and fasting for their fellow brothers and sisters affected by the storm. His "Day of Lament and Hope" with the theme of "Solidarity in Prayer" is set to be held on Nov. 16.

Cardinal Tagle continued to stress solidarity as he insisted "We are one with our suffering brothers and sisters.”

In his message addressed to the priests, religious and laity in the archdiocese of Manila, he asked that the day be observed through penance, prayer and fasting, as a way to be united with those suffering in the storm’s aftermath.

The cardinal will lead a Prayer Service and Holy Hour at 8 p.m. at the San Fernando de Dilao Parish church, in Paco, Manila, which is temporarily serving as the official church of the Archdiocese of Manila. The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception remains closed for restoration efforts that began last year.

The prayer service will be held for victims of Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest storms in recorded history, which struck the Philippines on Nov. 8, leaving destruction in its wake.

The full story is available at the CNA website.