Response to the Deadly Earthquakes in Syria & Turkey

We are watching and praying in sorrow as the tragic situation unfolds in Syria and Turkey in the aftermath of powerful earthquakes this week.

“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 the Rev. Jerry Pillay, general secretary of the World Council of Churches.

Episcopal Relief & Development is supporting the work of Action by Churches Together Alliance (ACT Alliance),  rapidly responding to the disaster through existing networks by providing supplies including winterization kits, hot meals and other food, medicine and emergency support. The organization is also in contact with other local partners as they assess the needs of their communities.

“The reports from Turkey and Syria are heart-wrenching,” said Abagail Nelson, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, Episcopal Relief & Development. “We have worked closely with ACT Alliance in our response to the crisis in Ukraine and we will continue to partner to meet the immediate needs of the affected communities in Turkey and Syria.”

Please continue to pray for those who have been affected by the earthquake.  Donations to the Turkey-Syria Earthquake Response Fund will help the organization to continue to respond to communities impacted by this disaster.

PHOTO CREDIT: ACT Alliance

Holy God, source of life, lover of souls, out of the depths we call to you; in the face of incomprehensible anguish and sorrow, we lift the cries of our distress and implore you to show mercy upon those who are suffering from the destruction of the earthquakes, especially in Turkey and Syria. We pray for those who have died and for their loved ones who grieve, asking you to hold them in the arms of your love; we pray for those who have been injured in body, mind and spirit and ask you to heal them; we pray for those who are homeless and wandering, for families torn asunder and ask you to shelter them. Strengthen the hands and hearts of those who assist in relief efforts and grant us all firm resolve to stand with our neighbors who are in need, to love them and to offer our generous support of them in this their time of trouble; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.