Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
I am certain that you are aware of the reports in the media of the outbreak of Ebola in parts of West Africa. To date, over 1,000 people have died. The most affected in the countries of Liberia and Sierra Leone have been the hospitals administered by the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God. Brother Thomas Osorio, OH, Prior of the Community here at Saint John of God, Westville Grove, has informed me that several Brothers and coworkers have contracted the virus while caring for the sick. Three Brothers, two who were nurses and one a medical doctor, have died. One of those Brothers, Brother Miguel, was a Brother Priest who served for over 50 years in the Brother’s hospital in Monrovia. He was sent back to Spain for treatment through the generosity of the Spanish government, but unfortunately he died. May he and all the victims rest in peace.
The situation, currently, is that the Order is having great difficulty getting needed resources as well as financial assistance that will allow the Brothers to continue to serve the sick in those impoverished areas. The Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God is an international Order in the Church who have served in our diocese for almost 50 years caring for children and adults with disabilities. Their ministry for God’s special children and adults has been and is a blessing for so many families in South Jersey.
I ask that you pray for the Brothers and their coworkers at this very critical time. Furthermore, I have asked that each parish in the diocese take a second collection this weekend, August 24, 2014, or arrange to collect donations in another manner. Please, know of my gratitude for your generosity toward this great need.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Dennis J. Sullivan, D.D.
Bishop of Camden
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