The Philippine Jesuits are joining forces with massive relief efforts to help victims of Typhoon Haiyan, the most powerful typhoon ever recorded in the Philippines.

A team from the Jesuit social arm, Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan (Church in service of the Nation – SLB), sailed last Wednesday on a navy boat for the devastated areas of Leyte and Samar, together with a Caritas Manila team and many supplies. Emergency response is ongoing and growing, with an appeal also being launched worldwide.

Philippine Jesuit Provincial, Fr Antonio Moreno, SJ, said: “The country still reels from the Zamboanga City siege and the earthquake that struck Bohol and Cebu a few weeks ago. Evacuees in those afflicted regions are still homeless, and yet, now, new cries arise from people suffering in other calamity-stricken areas.”

In view of this, Fr Moreno has already asked the Jesuits to simplify any Christmas or other celebrations over the coming months in solidarity with victims and to give attention to the needed, long-term recovery.

Anyone may support the relief efforts through monetary donations by cheque, addressed to Inservi, Philippine Emergency Appeal, Jesuit Provincial Offices, 78, Marquis Scicluna Street, Naxxar NXR 2067, or through a secure online donation portal on www.jesuit.org.mt.