As Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, continues to impact the Caribbean, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, has called for prayers and support for affected communities.

Broglio described the hurricane as "one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes in history" and noted its landfall in Jamaica, effects in Haiti, and mass evacuations in Cuba. He emphasized that families are at risk from flooding, landslides, displacement, and infrastructure damage with limited resources available to respond.

"Our brothers and sisters in small island nations like Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti are the most vulnerable to the impact of such strong storms, often intensified by a warming climate," Broglio said. "The Church accompanies, through prayer and action, all people who are suffering. I urge Catholics and all people of good will to join me in praying for the safety and protection of everyone, especially first responders, in these devastated areas. Let us stand in solidarity by supporting the efforts of organizations already on the ground such as Caritas Haiti, Caritas Cuba, and Caritas Antilles, as well as Catholic Relief Services, who are supplying essential, direct services and accompaniment to those in need."

Caribbean nations frequently experience significant challenges from powerful hurricanes due to their geographic location and vulnerability.