Following an earthquake and tsunami that destroyed major parts of Sulawesi, in the Indonesian archipelago the death toll exceeds 1400 with many more injured. This has been followed by a volcano adding to the severe trauma and devastation. Indonesia lies on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” and is prone to natural disasters.
The General Secretary of the World Methodist Council, Bishop Ivan Abrahams expressed condolences to the people of Indonesia and called on the Methodist community to pray and support those affected by the recent catastrophe.
According to a statement released by All We Can, a Methodist relief and development fund in Britain, Humanitarian Aid Coordinator Laura Cook said: “‘People who have lost everything are in desperate need of water, food, shelter and access to medical care. The final death toll could rise in to the thousands, and thousands more are left in a dire situation. We urge people to give generously so we are able to respond quickly.’ Conditions in the devastated area are extremely difficult. The tsunami tore up roads, washed away homes and cut off lines of communication. At least 42,000 people are displaced and more than 1.5 million have been affected.”
Bishop Abrahams urges Methodist people everywhere to join their respective church agencies in rendering aid to share love and resources as life’s basic essentials are in severe need.
