News
Romanian Orthodox Metropolitanate Mobilizes Relief for Colombia
As Colombia mourns its dead and searches the rubble, the Church in the Americas is preparing to turn compassion into aid.
CALI, COLOMBIA — The Metropolitanate of the Americas is preparing financial and material assistance for families affected by the devastating Aug. 10 earthquake in Colombia, Metr. Nicolae announced.
Through Fr. Daniel Adrian Ene, diocesan vicar and delegate for Latin America, the Metropolitanate has begun identifying the specific needs of affected communities. Contacts have been established with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cali, as well as local authorities and other relevant organizations in Valle del Cauca, to coordinate relief efforts.
Metr. Nicolae said assistance will be offered without regard to denominational affiliation, emphasizing that Christian compassion must respond first to human suffering. He also called on the clergy and faithful of the Metropolitanate to pray for the Colombian people and support the coming relief efforts as they are able.
The aid will build upon the Metropolitanate's ongoing social-philanthropic program, Alimos de Amor, which has served Orthodox communities in Colombia for several years. Romanian Orthodox communities in Barranquilla and Bucaramanga have not reported casualties or material damage.
According to Reuters, the 7.4-magnitude earthquake left about 290 people dead, more than 140 missing, and some 4,200 injured, with extensive damage reported in Cali, Pereira, and other communities.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Bp. Timotheos called for worldwide prayers for Venezuela.
Read also
