Pray to calm the typhoon, Bataan bishop asks faithful

BALANGA City, Bataan: Bishop Ruperto Santos of the Diocese of Balanga in Bataan has asked people to pray as Super typhoon Ompong threatens the country.

“Prayer is our strength, our assurance. Let us pray as one country begging God to keep us safe, to protect us from calamities and to deliver us from sufferings,” the prelate said on Thursday. He reminded all to be prepared. “Provide for what we really need and be our brothers’ keepers,” Santos said.

He also enjoined everyone to always follow the directives of government officials and heed their call to be safe.

The bishop uttered this prayer: “Heavenly Father and Loving God, You are the King of all creation. We adore You o Ruler of all nature! We humbly come to You and ask for Your mercy. Deliver us from the dangers of the approaching super typhoon.

“We know You can calm a storm at Your word, just like with what You did on the Sea of Galilee. We beg that You spare our nation from damage and tragedies. Come to the aid of those who are in the typhoon’s path so they may stay unharmed.

“May You pour Your most precious Spirit over our country so that we may be led to safety. Stir our hearts to be generous to those who need help in the days to come. Remind us at all times that even if we end up in the middle of a storm, You are the one holding us in the palm of Your hands. Amen.”