Aerial view of Our Lady of the Gulf following Hurricane Katrina - August 29, 2005
Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, as a community, we experienced the sacrifices, generosity, dedication and commitment of people around the country and around the world who came to help us rebuild the broken parts of our lives and communities.
These volunteers who came to help were angels of light showing us that goodness and caring still existed; that sacrifice and generosity was still part of the American ethos and that when in need, there is always a neighbor around, whether they live around the corner or thousands of miles away. Volunteers provided a shoulder to lean on; a body to support, a heart to love and hands to give.
As part of our appreciation and gratefulness to the countless volunteers who came to help, Our Lady of the Gulf parish dedicated an Angel of Light Statue in front of our church. It stands in front of our church as a constant reminder that people came, cared, loved and helped us recover.
May this Angel of Light statue remind us of the countless angels of light volunteers who came to us from near and far. They kept coming, making sure we were not forgotten. They lent us their time, talents, treasures, hearts, hands and love in helping us to rebuild our homes and our broken hearts.
May this Angel of Light, with its torch, stand guard over us, protecting us from the ravages of the sea.
May its light continue to guide our ways, give us hope and remind us that light is stronger than darkness.
Our Journey of Recovery from Hurricane Katrina
Our Tribute to Our Katrina Volunteers