Deal Hudson on Father Groeschel

Dear Friend,



I'm afraid I have some very bad news. As you may have already heard,

Fr. Benedict Groeschel, founder of the Franciscan Friars of the

Renewal in New York City and long-time friend of CRISIS, was struck

by a car last night and is now in the hospital in critical

condition.



Details are still sketchy, but sources say that Fr. Groeschel was

walking to a restaurant in Orlando when he was hit by a car near the

Orlando International Airport. He's now in intensive care at the

Orlando Regional Medical Center in critical but stable condition.



We spoke with Fr. Groeschel's assistant this morning who confirmed

the news, saying that the situation didn't look good. "We need

nothing short of a miracle," she said.



At this point, the most important thing we can do is pray. The

Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) is broadcasting a Holy Hour

for him this morning, and Fr. Groeschel's assistant requested that we

ask for prayers from St. Francis, the founder of the order, and St.

Augustine, who has been Fr. Groeschel's favorite all his life.



Father Groeschel is one of the most powerful voices for the Church

in this country and around the world. Not only that, but he's been

absolutely selfless in his generosity to numerous Catholic

apostolates, including this one. I know you don't need any

encouragement from me to pray for this truly holy man.



I'm very sorry for the bad news, but I knew you'd want to be kept

informed. I'll let you know as soon as we learn anything new.



Best,



Deal