Hurricane Ida Spares New Orleans from the Devastation of Katrina
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September 4, 2021Hurricane Ida hit Louisiana with a ferocity that many say rivaled most other storms since 1850, at least due to the wind and the slow crawl of the storm. New Orleans was on the “dirty side” of the storm (the east side).
Thankfully the levees held; unfortunately, power is out and more than likely it will be for weeks. Initially I was only able to receive texts, and eventually phone calls. (AT&T dropped my call while I was on the phone with the Archbishop. Thanks a lot AT&T.)
Our house lost power at 10 am on Sunday – no surprise as we lose power early and often. The worst of the winds lasted from 10 am to a little past midnight. Our house, the Shrine of Blessed Francis X. Seelos & Welcome Center, and St. Mary’s Assumption Church were not damaged. The school suffered about half its roof shingles being torn off and damage to windows. Most likely, water damage too. The first and former Church of St. Alphonsus (no longer used in ministry) suffered significant damage. Our courtyard lost some beautiful trees. Minor issues for us, as I know of parishioners who have lost their roofs. So many, their livelihoods.
I stayed until Wednesday to clean the fridges out. Most of the Redemptorist community is now dispersed through different communities in the Denver Province. The last few days have been difficult simply due to the heat and humidity. Not to mention the labor of life without electricity. We made do, and we were preparedwith some outdoor gas grills. Our house doesn’t have a generator.
It’s sort of an emotional roller coaster. One day you are going about your business. Prepping for this. Doing that. Planning, etc. The next moment it all comes to a sudden stop. Your parishioners are scattered in a diaspora, from Texas to Georgia. And I’m lucky enough to get out. I have the privilege to move on. But so many are stuck without power and essentials. You don’t know when life will return to “normal” or when you will see people who once filled the pews.
On my drive to Baton Rouge, the devastation in other areas became visible as well. Remember, my only picture of the storm has been thru the radio up to this point and what I have seen in my own neighborhood. I won’t say I didn’t clap with joy a few times as utility trucks and heavy equipment passed me on the highway heading into New Orleans.
I love New Orleans. It’s a wonderful city. I love the children of our school. The religious sisters I work with. The people of our parish. I pray for their well being, safety and healing.
