In anticipation of the hurricane season, the bishop of Beaumont, Texas, blessed a local river May 16 to pray for the “preservation of life and property” in the community, continuing a tradition held annually for the past six years.
According to 12 News Now, an ABC affiliate, Bishop David Toups blessed the Neches River, where he prayed for “God’s strength” ahead of the nearing hurricane season, which officially begins June 1.
Bishop Toups began the blessing tradition in 2020 after Hurricane Laura struck on his first day as bishop of Beaumont.
The report said the blessing, which is open to people of all backgrounds, is held each year to pray for the preservation of life and property across Southeast Texas.
Bishop Toups also said the blessing is not merely about asking for clement weather, but about turning to the Lord in times of trial and uncertainty.
"It doesn't mean that [hurricanes] won't ever hit us,” he said, “but it means we're asking God to hear our prayers. And if we're ever hit again, we're asking God's strength to help us to handle and manage the situation and stick together as a community."