Long Island parish aided after 2001 terrorist attacks returns favor

Published: 2006-03-16

MANHASSET, N.Y. (CNS) -- Parishioners at St. Mary's Church in Manhasset were overwhelmed with gifts and support after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. After Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, they wanted to repay some of that kindness by helping a parish damaged by the storm. "Other parishes sent us teddy bears, a banner, cards and cookies," said Msgr. John McCann, pastor of St. Mary's, describing the concern shown to his parishioners after the World Trade Center collapse nearly five years ago. They were especially hard hit by the tragedy. Now they're reaching out to Sacred Heart in D'Iberville, Miss., in the Biloxi Diocese, as it recovers from last summer's hurricanes. St. Mary's parishioners initially sent $7,500 to help with the church's most pressing needs. Sacred Heart is a mile away from the Gulf Coast. Waves of 30 feet high came through the town during the hurricane and 10 feet of water flooded the area for hours completely damaging buildings. Rebuilding costs for Sacred Heart's church, elementary school, parish hall, rectory and parish offices will cost at least $5 million, not including the costs of materials such as vestments, Bibles, computers and desks.

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