We are all aware of the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan and the ongoing threat of nuclear contamination. Maryknoll has had a long history in Japan. The Maryknoll Sisters and the Fathers and Brothers have some updates on their websites from missioner there.
Father Joe Veneroso MM shared the following letter from Father Roberto Rodriguez from Japan:
Dear friends:
Thank you for all your messages of Solidarity and Prayers for the people here in Japan.
It is very comforting to receive them and to count on your prayers during such terrible situation here in Japan.
The earthquake, which measured 8.9, and the tsunami had been devastating for many people and communities here in Japan. Some places close to the Sendai Prefecture, where the epicenter of the earthquake was, had been covered up with water and destroyed due to its impact. At the moment there are many fires burning in several places throughout the country, trains are no running and other public services are down too. There is fear that one of the nuclear plants is not shutdown totally and radiation may be leaking. There had been more than 30 after shocks and they are continuing. Some of them are very strong measuring more than 5.0 in the scale and last for a long time. People are afraid and trying to cope as well as they can.
Personally I am doing fine and everyone here in the house is good too. Thank you for your messages of concern regarding myself, the Maryknollers in Japan and the people of this country.
Let us continue to pray for all the victims of this terrible earthquake and that calm/peace may return soon to this beautiful land of the Rising Sun.
Ever grateful your friend Roberto
Rev. Roberto Rodriguez, MM
