The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops recognizes the great tragedy unfolding in the panhandle region of Texas and Oklahoma, and asks for prayers and support for all.

“Our Catholic brothers and sisters are united with all who are suffering from the tragic wildfires,” said Bishop Patrick Zurek of the Amarillo Diocese, where the wildfires are burning. “We are grateful to the firefighters and first responders for their work to save lives and contain the fires. The loss of life and livelihood for our families and neighbors in the Texas Panhandle is devastating, and we are blessed in the knowledge that our Catholic community is standing in solidarity with us.”

Approximately 85% of the cattle raised in Texas, which provides food for the rest of the United States and the world, is being directly impacted by the fires. The Texas Catholic bishops encourage donations to Catholic Charities USA, which is coordinating with local agencies.

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Please join us in prayer.

Prayer In Time of Wildfires : The Catholic Health Association of the United States

God of all creation, all the elements belong to you.

The earth, air, water and fire are yours to command.

You guarded your people Israel by night with a pillar of flame.
You sanctified the early church with tongues of fire at Pentecost.
You appeared to Moses in the burning bush, which was engulfed but not consumed.

God of wind and flame, extinguish the fires engulfing land, communities, and homes.
Guard those who must flee because of the blaze, give them safety and wholeness.
Bring those who have perished home to you, grant them your perpetual peace.
Protect those who battle the flames, sanctify their service and send them your Spirit.

Restore our land, our homes, our faith in your goodness,
And show us again how you bring life out of ash and dust
Give us the resources and strength, we ask, to rebuild and replant
And show us that you are the loving Creator and Savior.
Amen.