The news and images of the recent earthquake in Syria and Turkey are heart-wrenching. The devastation is compounded by winter temperatures, poverty, and warfare. I invite you to join me with prayers for healing amid grief, recognizing that, as of this morning, more than 11,000 people have died. Consider reading Psalm 46 aloud in solidarity and intercession for people in desperate need.
In addition to praying, I have asked our mission team to mobilize resources in two directions. We are working through the Outreach Foundation to support the Presbyterian Church in Aleppo, Syria, which suffered significant damage. The church is already providing support for 350 people seeking shelter. In Turkey, we are supporting the efforts of our trusted partner, World Relief, to care for those impacted by this disaster.
It’s moments like these where we are vividly reminded that our mission at the church is more than a statement. Our ‘joining Christ daily in the restoration of all things’ is a way of living. May God continue to restore hope and love and peace in a shaken and fractured world.