Rescue workers and local officials search for survivors amid several collapsed residential and commercial buildings after Monday’s earthquake. COURTESY PHOTO.
At least 5,000 people have been confirmed dead following the devastating earthquakes which rocked southern Turkey and Northern Syria on Monday.
Media reports indicate that the 7.8-magnitude quake, one of the strongest to hit the region in more than 100 years, is raising fears of a new humanitarian crisis.
The World Council of Churches revealed in a statement Monday that as search and rescue operations continue despite adverse weather conditions, churches are reaching out to check on those affected and praying for the safety of those missing.
“In the midst of death and trauma caused by this terrible event, let us bring our intercessions together, praying that the God of Life will comfort the ones who lost their loved ones and give strength to those involved in the actions of solidarity with the victims,” said Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, general secretary of the World Council of Churches.
Pillay added “We convey our prayers to the victims and their families, as well as to the churches and local communities in Syria and in Turkey mobilizing their networks to help their sisters and brothers.”
Ibrahim Najjar, a partner of International Christian organisation Open Doors in Aleppo, described the severity of the earthquake, saying, “we all felt death was imminent”.
Mr Najjar said their church partners have been among the first responders to the earthquake, and urged prayers for church leaders and members.
“We ask all Christians to join us in praying for those impacted by this tragedy. We are praying for those who mourn and grieve loved ones; those who are injured; and for the ongoing rescue efforts.
“We are calling on believers to pray that the church would rely on God’s strength and that His people would reach out in love to those who need it most.”
Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared seven days of national mourning and raised the earthquake alert to Level 4, which means the country is open to international help.
“Due to the earthquakes that took place in our country on February 6, a national mourning period was declared for seven days. Our flag will be hoisted at half-mast until sunset on Sunday, February 12, in all our country and foreign representations,” Erdogan said on Twitter.
He noted that his government was coordinating aid offers from over 45 countries, including Russia and some European nations.
Leaders of African countries including Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni expressed their condolences and showed solidarity with the two countries .
“I am deeply saddened by the deaths, injuries and loss of property in Turkey and Syria in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake. My thoughts and prayers, and those of all Ugandans, are with the families who have lost their loved ones. May their souls rest in eternal peace,” President Yoweri Museveni said.
Here are some specific ways we can be praying for those affected by the massive earthquake, and especially for local believers as they share the love and truth of Christ in the critical days ahead.
- Pray that survivors will be quickly rescued, and for all emergency and medical staff
- Pray for God to fill his people with peace and for all who mourn to be comforted.
- Pray for Christians to reach out in compassion.
- Pray for local civic and church leaders to have wisdom.
- Pray for the church to work with humility and unity.
- Pray for an open door for the gospel.
