Congregants from the Episcopal Churches of Christ the King and Jesus de Nazaret gathered on Wednesday, Sept. 21. 

Honoring Victims 

The local church hosted a traditional ceremony to honor the victims of Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. 

In a report with WESH, it has been five years since Hurricane Maria hit the island. Both storms have caused devastation and death in Puerto Rico. Since Hurricane Fiona hit, many on the island have been left without water or power. 

La Escuela de Bomba y Plena Tata Cepeda led the belén. The ceremony started with solemn music to honor those who died. 

The music became more upbeat, symbolizing hope for the new road ahead. 

School leader Barbara Liz Cepeda expressed how hard it has been for the community. She shared that she has family in Puerto Rico, so the tragedy hits home. 

Solidarity for Victims

She was thankful for everyone's cooperation and generosity in their cause. Cepeda said that she made sure that relief efforts were immediately sent to Puerto Rico.

Among the needed supplies they gathered included flashlights and batteries. She explained that many families were still without power on the island. The church and school also collected cash donations to help residents rebuild. 

Church leaders added that they would also seek data on what else the residents would need once the storm is over. 

Cepeda pointed out that this night focused on tradition. They gathered as a church community to honor lost lives and pray for a brighter tomorrow. There were dancers, drummers, and colorful costumes during the event. 

Each drum beat and flash of fabric was a marriage of culture and tradition. 

Cepeda expressed her gratitude to all those who attended the event. She added that times like this made her most proud to be part of Central Florida. 

Day of Infamy 

According to an article with National Geographic, many in Puerto Rico still recall the day Hurricane Maria hit the island. 

Hurricane Maria devastated the island for sixteen hours, bringing 155 mph winds. Bridges, cellphone towers, and homes were destroyed in their wake. 

According to the report, the aftermath was devastating. Many had to stand in line to be able to buy food and other essentials. 

Supplies such as water and hygiene materials were also scarce and had to be rationed. There was another line for gas for vehicles and power generators. 

There was also a line for those who would receive relief goods and donations. 

The report said that this was the second longest blackout ever recorded in the world. The Philippines garnered the first spot following Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.

For many who experienced Hurricane Maria, it was a helpless time for them. They also experienced a series of blows, including political turmoil and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Many on the island are in a race for survival and are still in mourning. They also have few resources to process the staggering losses. 

The tragedy hit close to home when Hurricane Fiona hit the island once again. 

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