My brothers and sisters in Christ,

As the Holy Spirit brings us together once again for our Sunday celebration of the Holy Eucharist, I want to offer you my greetings. The recent earthquake and after shocks mean that all of us in Christchurch and its surrounding area have lived through a time of stress, fear and uncertainty.

While there has been significant damage to dwellings and property, no one has been killed. For this supreme blessing, we must be utterly thankful and praise God with sincere hearts.

As might be presumed, parish churches and school buildings have been damaged in various degrees.

I want to draw your attention to the the diocesan website which is updated regularly and carries accurate information and I recommend it to you.

(If you don’t have its address, search for Catholic Diocese of Christchurch).

Many bishops Catholic organisations and individuals, both locally and from overseas, have sent messages to us of prayers, solidarity, sympathy and support.

Yours sincerely,

+ Barry Jones

Bishop of Christchurch.