Historic snowstorm in Buffalo damages more than half of parishes

Published: 2006-10-17

BUFFALO, N.Y. (CNS) -- Cleanup is under way after a historic snowstorm damaged more than half of the parishes and missions in the Diocese of Buffalo. "In many of our communities, every tree was damaged, with many crashing to the ground, the result of two feet of heavy, wet snow falling on trees that still have their leaves," said Kevin Keenan, director of communications in the diocese, in a news release. He estimated that 150 of the 260 parishes and nine missions in the diocese had sustained either tree or property damage. The diocesan insurance department was processing claims from those parishes. Following the Oct. 12-13 storms, which set a record as the two snowiest October days Buffalo has had, Bishop Edward U. Kmiec of Buffalo waived the Sunday Mass obligation for Catholics living in the storm area. Weekend Masses were canceled in many parishes. Many Catholic elementary and high schools closed Oct. 13 and were expected to remain closed until Oct. 23.

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