The Methodist Church in Britain and All We Can, the Methodist relief and development charity, have launched an urgent appeal for the people of Indonesia.
On Friday 28 September, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck just off the central island of Sulawesi in Indonesia, setting off a tsunami that engulfed the city of Palu.
Waves more than three metres high swept across the land destroying almost everything in their wake. At least 1,300 are already confirmed dead, though the true impact of this disaster may not be known for weeks with many neighbouring towns and villages cut off by landslides and debris.
At the time of writing, three communities had yet to be reached.
The President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference, the Revd Michaela A Youngson and Bala Gnanapragasam, said that they shared in the shock of all who are following the news of the devastating tsunami:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost so much; those who have been bereaved, those who have been injured and those searching in fear and dismay for their loved ones.”
“We know that our Methodist family will respond generously to appeals for money and will pray for the swift rebuilding of the communities so devastated by this disaster.”
All We Can’s 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.
All We Can is already working with a trusted partner in Sulawesi to get help to those who need it most while assessing the most crucial needs going forward.
To give to this urgent appeal, to follow the latest news from Indonesia and to download prayer resources, visit www.allwecan.org.uk/indonesia
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