Five Franciscan leaders based in New York and New Jersey, whose ministries were affected by superstorm Sandy, have sent to Governors Andrew Cuomo and Chris Christie a letter noting how the governors have a unique opportunity to highlight the link between global climate change and storms like October’s superstorm Sandy.

“It is incumbent upon all of us – elected officials as well as civic, business and religious leaders – to work together, across any divides, to seek and to implement measures that would ameliorate climate disruptions and put us on the path toward a sustainable, prosperous future,” the letter said.

The Very Rev. John O’Connor, O.F.M., provincial minister of Holy Name Province based in New York City, whose ministries in New Jersey were severely affected by Sandy, said, “I was pleased to send this letter as the ongoing difficulties to rebuild after the storm remain. It is a reminder that our work is not done and that we need to take action to reduce the chance that storms like this happen again.”

The provincial leaders who signed the letters are: Very Rev. John O’Connor; Sister Nancy Marie Jamroz, C.S.S.F.; Very Rev. Primo Piscitello, O.F.M.; and Very Rev. Justin Biase, O.F.M. Conv.