In the wake of devastating flash floods that have swept through Nepal and Tibet, claiming numerous lives and leaving many missing, Christian leaders worldwide have extended their prayers and support. The disaster, believed to be triggered by a partial glacier collapse, has wreaked havoc on communities, destroying homes, roads, and bridges.
Sarah Mullally, the Archbishop of Canterbury, expressed her deep concern and prayer for those affected by this calamity. She emphasized her prayers for the families who have lost loved ones or are anxiously awaiting news, as well as for the emergency teams working under challenging conditions. “I pray too for those who are injured, and for the doctors and nurses working tirelessly to bring healing and rebuild lives,” she stated, invoking a message of hope and resilience.
Pope Leo XIV, in a message relayed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, conveyed profound sorrow over the tragedy. He expressed his spiritual solidarity with the victims’ families and the rescuers, offering prayers for all involved in the relief efforts.
American evangelist Franklin Graham called upon Christians worldwide to unite in prayer, describing the disaster’s impact as “chilling” and “apocalyptic.” He urged followers to “take a moment to stop and pray for the people of this region and for families anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones.”
The Catholic Church in Nepal, alongside the Catholic aid organization Caritas, is actively evaluating how best to contribute to the emergency relief efforts. Fr Silas Krishna Bogati, the apostolic administrator of the Nepal vicariate, reported that while 25 Catholic families in the region are safe, challenges persist. A priest, Fr James Britto, is currently stranded due to destroyed infrastructure that has isolated him from his mission station. Fr Bogati noted the significant casualties in the area.
The sudden flooding, which began on a Wednesday, unleashed torrents of water, mud, and debris across the affected regions. As search-and-rescue operations continue, hundreds of tourists, pilgrims, and local residents remain missing, highlighting the disaster’s extensive impact.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
