As wildfires continue to rage throughout Northern California and many parts of the Diocese of Sacramento, we especially pray for the Church in Santa Rosa and the people of Napa and Sonoma Counties who have been impacted greatly by the fires.

We acknowledge the sense of loss and suffering experienced by those of you who have lost their homes, businesses (or places of employment). We pray that you do not lose hope, nor the sense of God’s presence and the support of the community.

We pray, too, for the brave men and women who are responding to these disasters, battling the fires and helping people to safety. We call upon God for improved weather conditions and for the blessing of rain to assist them.

The Vatican recently launched a website and survey for youth and young adults related to the XV Ordinary Synod of Bishops on "Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment." The survey on the website is aimed at youth and young adults ages 16 to 29. The responses go directly and confidentially to the Vatican Synod Office. The Holy Father wants online feedback from all youth and young adults from around the world, regardless of how active they are in the practice of the faith. The online survey is open until Nov. 30.

The Respect Life Program, sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, started in 1972 and is celebrated each October with Respect Life Month. The program promotes respect for human life in light of our intrinsic dignity as having been created in God's image and likeness and called to an eternal destiny with him.

This year's theme is "Be Not Afraid." Being a voice and advocate for life can bring painful and difficult challenges, but acting to protect life in all of its stages is always the right choice.

New materials are designed each year to assist those in various roles within the Church to help Catholics understand, value, and become engaged with supporting the dignity of every person, especially by cherishing God's gift of life.