UAECNE Communiqué – Earthquake in Syria and Turkey

In view of the devastating earthquake that has occurred in southern Turkey and northern Syria on 6 February 2023, the Union of the Armenian Evangelical Churches in the Near East (UAECNE) expresses its sympathy for the thousands of lives that were lost as well as its deep concern for the multitudes of grieving, injured, displaced and homeless persons. The UAECNE remains in constant communication with its churches, leaders and communities in the affected region.

Joining with partners, including the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA), the UAECNE is poised to do its utmost to assist the many Armenians and others in the region affected by this tragedy. It joins its ecumenical partners in calling governments and organizations worldwide to bring their resources and skills to aid those facing an uncertain future in these cold winter days and beyond. Additionally, the UAECNE joins its voice with others to urge the lifting of sanctions on Syria in order to allow humanitarian assistance to be freely rendered without impediment.

With prayer for God’s mercy and strength to be with his suffering children, we declare:

“God is our refuge . . . we are not afraid even when the earth quakes.” (Psalm 46.1-2)