Emergency relief for Fiji

Posted in News

Many communities in Fiji are suffering widespread destruction in the aftermath of Category 5 Cyclone Winston, which hit on Saturday 20 February. It is the strongest storm ever recorded in the South Pacific.

At the time of publication, 29 people are confirmed dead. Whole villages have been destroyed, particularly on the island of Koro where a relief and assessment ship is being deployed. Approximately 14,000 people remain in evacuation centres.

Following the storm, the Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma quickly opened church buildings for emergency shelter and many are now offering relief programs. Ministers across the country have been busy assessing and reporting on the extent of the damage.

The Methodist Church’s disaster response committee is meeting today to discuss current and future plans.

UnitingWorld and the Uniting Church in Australia have also been quick to respond to this disaster with calls for prayer and support.

Rob Floyd, the National Director of UnitingWorld has offered immediate emergency relief and longer term disaster recovery to Rev Tevita Bainivanua, the President of the Methodist Church.

Uniting Church SA Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer issued a pastoral note inviting people to pray as the impact of the disaster is assessed and the recovery process begins.

“Join me in praying for God’s comfort for those who have lost loved ones and for those who may still be awaiting news about friends and relatives,” she writes.

“Please also pray for those who are assisting with relief and aid. We pray that God will sustain them and strengthen them as they undertake the necessary support and pastoral care of those affected.”

Uniting Church members are also encouraged to support the relief effort in Fiji by contributing to the Fiji Emergency Appeal.

All funds raised will be used to support the relief efforts of UnitingWorld’s church partner, including re-establishing healthcare and schools, replanting crops and livelihoods and “building back better” to safeguard communities against future natural disasters.

For more information about the appeal or to donate, please visit the UnitingWorld website.


More from News

Subscribe to receive News articles by email >


Comments

Comments (3)