On 8 November 2013 super-typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines, killing thousands of people and causing huge material damage. Dr. Michael Thio reports that the St. Vincent dePaul Society reached and exceeded its objective of raising 1 million Euros in aid.

Dear Vincentians,

The Peace of Christ be with you.

We are very pleased to inform you, that through the grace of God, the total donations received have amounted to Euro 1,231,918 which surpassed our target of Euro 1 million.  We are truly very grateful to all our generous donors from around the world in responding so positively to this disaster appeal. We express to them our heartfelt appreciation and enormous thanks. It is very touching and encouraging to witness the compassion and love of the donors in showing their Oneness and Solidarity with the victims of Typhoon Yolanda. We give Praise and Thanks to the Lord.

The Commission for International Aid & Development(CIAD) of CGI are working closely with the National Council, SSVP Philippines, in the various rehabilitation programs/projects in alleviating the plight of the victims and to provide them with the essential basic necessities, housing, education, sustaining projects and more to enable them to live a more dignified and humane life.

Holy masses will be offered in thanksgiving and for the intentions of both the donors and the recipients.

Let us remain united in prayer in union with one another and the poor and the needy in glorifying to the love and goodness of God. In Jesus precious and adorable name, we pray.

In our Vincentian mission, charism and ethos and with the Love and abundant blessing of the Lord.

Yours in the service of Christ in the poor,

Dr. Michael Thio

President General