A statement from the Diocese of Chile explains the Church’s immediate response to the 8.8 magnitude earthquake, and subsequent tremors, that struck Chile on 27 February
The quake had an extension of 1,145 kilometers from La Serena to Temuco.
Three large cities were the most affected: Concepción (most of all), Santiago and Viña del Mar. After the disaster a tsunami struck various coastal towns, which shows that our task in many places in Chile will be huge, not only socially but also spiritually.
The Anglican Church of Chile is joining forces to help the areas affected by the catastrophe. Our task will be centered in the city of Concepción and in Pelluhue, a small town in the Maule province (second most affected province). This town is located forty kilometers west of Cauquenes, between Curanipe and Chanco.
Our Diocesan Bishop, the Rt Rev Héctor Zavala, with a group of fellow Christians, went to Concepción to examine the situation of church members over there.
His visit has been very helpful because he has been able to spend time with our brothers and sisters and encourage them, but also because he has been able to guide the food distribution, which we sent in a truck that took water and rations to the three congregations that are located in that city.
These three congregations are composed of over seventy families which have suffered a lot because of the earthquake, but also later because of the food shortage and looting which occurred in the city.
Later on we will work hand in hand with these congregations in the development of a support network for those who still do not know Christ in that city.
Moreover, we want to reach the town of Pelluhue to help the people in that area and support them comprehensively in rebuilding their lives through a short and medium term plan.
At first we prioritized helping by sending a second truck from Santiago, filled with food and priority goods for this area.
Now we are working in planning in order to focus our efforts on debris removal, and the subsequent reconstruction of houses and productive activities both in Concepción and Pelluhue.
Our task consists of comprehensive support because we know that many lives have been affected. For this reason our view as Christians is giving loving support to the people and working hand in hand with them to help them come through.
We have a qualified team and expert advice to achieve this objective, but in order to carry out this plan, at this stage financial help is of the essence.
If you would like to donate to help the local church’s response, please use the button below. CMS will pass on donations to the Anglican Diocese of Chile.