Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The devastation following a massive earthquake that struck Christchurch, New Zealand is overwhelming. News reports indicate that at least 65 people have been killed in the natural disaster and many more are still trapped.
We stand with all who have been affected by this tragedy, especially our Anglican brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Christchurch. As you may know, Christchurch Cathedral is an historic Anglican place of worship, and has been called the “heart and soul†of the city. Christchurch Cathedral has been a living house of prayer for the city of Christchurch and the Anglican Diocese for over a century. Sadly, after standing firm for 110 years, the Cathedral’s 63 meter spire toppled due to the devastating quake.
I hope you’ll join me in prayer for Bishop Matthews and the clergy of the Diocese of Christchurch as they attend to the needs of those who are suffering in the aftermath of this tragedy.
Please also pray for the families of those who were killed, for those who are missing and injured, for aid workers, military personnel, government officials, and other volunteers who are part of the rescue and relief efforts. We know that the Lord can work in powerful ways, especially in the midst of crisis.
If you are able, please consider donating to the Anglican Relief and Development Fund (ARDF) which is currently sending funds to aid the Christchurch tragedy. Donate here: http://anglicanaid.net/?/main/page/31
Prayer: Gracious Father, creator and Savior of this mortal world, we ask your comforting and strengthening help for the people of New Zealand. Comfort those whose loved ones have died, bring swift rescue for those who are missing, and strengthen those who are injured. In all of this crisis, empower your people with your Holy Spirit as they bring Gospel love and courage to their fellow countrymen. Keep us steadfast in prayer until this season of trial has passed for our brothers and sisters. All these things we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Faithfully your archbishop,
+Robert Pittsburgh
Photo credit: Associated Press. Debris from the 6.3 New Zealand earthquake rests on a crushed car outside the Christchurch Cathedral on Tuesday. The quake hit the country’s second-largest city, Christchurch, at the height of a busy workday, killing at least 65.
