Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., offered his prayers in a statement following the tragic July 13th fire at the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River.

The fire at the Gabriel House assisted living facility is a heartbreaking tragedy for our entire City of Fall River. I am profoundly saddened by the loss of nine lives in the fire and the numerous persons left injured by it. Today it is nearly impossible to think of anything else but the loss and suffering being endured by so many because of the fire.

I am praying for all those impacted: for those who died and their loved ones who mourn them; for the recovery of those injured; and for those who are now without a home in the wake of the fire. I know I am joined in these prayers by all in the Catholic community of the Diocese of Fall River and beyond.

This disastrous event reminds us of the difficult and dangerous job of firefighting. We are deeply grateful for the heroic efforts of our firefighters and all first responders. Along with our gratitude, they also need our prayerful support as they deal with their own anguish after responding to such a devastating fire.

St. Mary’s Cathedral in downtown Fall River is open through midafternoon for anyone who may wish to spend time there in prayer and reflection. The daily noontime Mass offered there today included special prayers for all those impacted by the Gabriel House fire.

Reverendísimo Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
Reverendísimo Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Bishop of Fall River