Anglican Communion News Service - Digest News

Appalled and overwhelmed, says Archbishop, but generosity and care can make a difference.

29 December 2004

Acknowledging the large number of Indian and Sri Lankan members of churches in Melbourne, Anglican Archbishop Peter Watson today issued a statement of care for all victims of the Boxing Day tsunami, and made a plea for prayer and generous support.

"We are appalled and overwhelmed at the extent of the devastation caused by the Tsunami to Australia's north," he said. "Many nations that rim the Indian Ocean have felt its effects. The loss of life and property is horrendous and our hearts go out to all caught in this tragedy."

"All churches will offer prayer this Sunday for the suffering and the grieving in all nations involved, including our own. We will also support the efforts of humanitarian agencies rushing to offer help. "Our own aid agency AngliCORD has set up its own appeal which will direct funds through ACT - Action by Churches Together and through local Councils of Churches.

"We are conscious of the many Sri Lankan and Indian members of our churches, as well as those from other affected countries, and empathise with the concern of all who fear for family and friends. "Although the human spirit can be daunted by the magnitude of what has happened it can also rise to impressive levels of generosity and care.

"In the name of Jesus we reach out with our love and concern."

The Most Revd Peter Watson
Archbishop of the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne