Archbishop Jun Ikenaga, To All People of Good Will in the World

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To All People of Good Will in the World, Following the recent East Japan Great Earthquake, which struck Japan […]

To All People of Good Will in the World,

Following the recent East Japan Great Earthquake, which struck Japan all of a sudden, I would like to express my profound appreciation to all of you who have sent us letters of sympathy right away and encouraged us by offering heartfelt prayers and contributions.
Being helpless against the unimaginable tsunami which immediately followed the earthquake and hit the coastal areas, a great number of people and countless houses were swept away, and an unspeakably horrible situation has arisen. Moreover, due to the serious damage to the atomic power plant and subsequent release of radioactive substances, the whole population of Eastern Japan is particularly filled with a sense of fear.
With a sense of gratitude, I would like to express to you how strongly the letters of sympathy from all over the world and various prayers for Japan have consoled and supported us.
As the chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude once again especially for the heartfelt prayers, contributions and supports in many other ways from all of you in the Catholic Church in the world.
For example, at the Massabielle Cave of Lourdes where the Virgin Mary appeared, the Rosary, which is recited every afternoon, was dedicated to Japan in hardship, from March 16 to 20. Those scenes were globally broadcasted through the Internet.
In addition, I have seen many unforgettable scenes including ones in which athletes or laborers have offered silent prayers together before their games or jobs in many countries and regions.
In many parts of the world, a tremendous number of non-Catholic people have also been offering prayers and contributions. I profoundly appreciate all of such warmhearted consideration. We look forward to your continued support for Japan in this time of need.

March 30, 2011
+ Leo Jun IKENAGA, S.J.
Archbishop of Osaka
President
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan

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