From Episcopal Relief & Development
April 25, 2015
A massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on April 25, centered between the capital, Kathmandu, and the city of Pokhara. At least 876 people are known to have died, and many more may be trapped under rubble.
According to reports, tremors were felt across the region, with further loss of life in India, Bangladesh and on Mount Everest, where an avalanche killed eight.
The Nepalese government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas.
Mobile phones and other communications networks have been disrupted, hampering efforts to gain information from the
Damage is also reported at Kathmandu’s airport, which may impact relief operations.
“Rescuers are digging through the rubble of collapsed buildings in the capital trying to reach survivors,” reports the BBC.
Episcopal Relief & Development urges prayers at this time for all those impacted, and for the search and rescue teams who are working to save lives. Please also pray for the country of Nepal as it copes with the loss of life and destruction of homes, businesses and religious sites.
| A Prayer for First RespondersBlessed are you, Lord, God of mercy, who through your Son gave us a marvelous example of charity and the great commandment of love for one another. Send down your blessings on these your servants, who so generously devote themselves to helping others. Grant them courage when they are afraid, wisdom when they must make quick decisions, strength when they are weary, and compassion in all their work. When the alarm sounds and they are called to aid both friend and stranger, let them faithfully serve you in their neighbor. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
— Adapted from the Book of Blessings, #587, by Diana Macalintal |
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Posted by John B. Chilton