The people of upper East Tennessee near the North Carolina border are working to piece their lives back together amid the devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene. And the Catholic parishes of this region have joined together in leading disaster-relief efforts as communities suddenly found themselves without water, communications, basic necessities, and even roads to access critical assistance.
Catholic Charities of East Tennessee provides assistance in emergencies through its operations network and is ready to work with individuals and communities in need.
Bishop Mark Beckman is offering his prayers and the prayers of the Diocese of Knoxville for all those affected by Hurricane Helene and the flooding caused by the hurricane's strong remnants that passed through East Tennessee on Friday.
Catholic Extension Society has named Sister Mary Lisa Renfer, RSM, as the 2024 recipient of the Lumen Christi Award, the highest honor given by the respected lay organization whose non-profit work supports and strengthens mission dioceses across the United States. Sister Mary Lisa is being recognized for her work with the St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic, which provides health care to low-income, uninsured residents across East Tennessee.