Texas fires continue to blaze

Fire-fighters have begun gaining ground against a deadly wildfire raging near Austin that has destroyed more homes than any other blaze in Texas history. The 14,000-hectare Bastrop County Complex fire has claimed at least two victims. The fire has forced the evacuation of 5,000 people, and destroyed nearly 800 homes, threatening nearby Austin and blanketing the city in smoke and soot. The bishop of Austin, Texas, Joe S. Vasquez told us the Catholic community, especially, has been active in helping those most in need, offering shelter and other necessities to those who have fled and those whom the blaze has dispossessed. “The community has really come together, especially our Catholic community through our Catholic Charities office.” The bishop went on to say that the need is great and donations of both money and material are most welcome. Bishop Vasquez also asks in a special way for people of faith to keep his community in their prayers. “I think there is a great solidarity in our faith,” he said. “Prayers are very important at this time.” Nearly 1 and a half million hectares in Texas have been scorched by wildfires since November 2010, fed by a drought that has caused more than $5 billion in damage to the
state's agricultural industry and that shows no sign of easing. Listen to Chris Altieri's interview with bishop Vasquez: