Tampa: Hopeful Through the Storm

By Ms. Chioma Okoye, Communications Director, Mary Help of Christians Center

(Tampa, FL – October 16) – Hurricane Milton was the most devastating storm many in the Tampa Bay area have ever seen. It was also coupled with the previous loss faced by others from Hurricane Helene just a week prior.

By the grace of God and the protection of our Blessed Mother, Mary Help of Christians Tampa was spared of any major damages. The main building served as a shelter for a few parishioners and Cristo Rey teachers with their families during the brunt of the storm.

“After days without electricity, I was driving around looking for gas and while passing Mary Help, I noticed the lights were on! I went into the chapel to pray while I charged my electronics—I’m so grateful for this place!” said Juliana, a parishioner at Mary Help of Christians Parish.

Mary Help has always been a haven for those in need, and, through this storm, it was no different. Though clean-up will be a long process and much help is needed, we are grateful to still be here with the ability to serve both the spiritual and physical needs of our community.

Mary Help of Christians, pray for us!