Eastern Kentucky has experienced historic rainfall and devastating floods.  This extreme weather event occurred immediately on the heels of the snow and ice storm that had already left many without power.  The images of flooding and property loss are heartbreaking.   Many homes suffered severe damage and some homes are a complete loss. Federal aid assists in costs related to relocation of families but there are critical needs still present for many families.  The Diocese of Lexington is taking up a collection to support the emergency needs of families in the area and will administer the funds via Catholic Charities.  Families are in need of financial assistance as well as basic hygiene and household items.  Catholic Charities will work with these groups to lend aid to families and individuals as they rebuild their lives.  Please give to this week's second collection to support the emergency needs of our brothers and sisters in Eastern Kentucky.

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Scenes from our Sister Parish Holy Cross in Jackson, KY


Words from Josh Van Cleef, the parish life director at Holy Cross

On Tuesday, the dam next to Holy Cross, that holds back the Kentucky River, was compromised and river water began flowing under the road and into the area surrounding the church. National Guard was forced to evacuate the residents of the area.

The church flooded on the basement level up to my waist and they thought the water would continue to rise up to the level of the sanctuary. Fortunately the Army Corps  of Engineers temporarily fixed the damaged section on the dam and held off water until the river level went down. So, we are grateful that the water did not continue to rise in the church.

Emergency shelters were set up in town for the many people who had to evacuate. The damage to homes was devastating.  In terms of the church, all parishioners are safe and we have begun the process of water remediation and assessing the damage.