Words of Support After Horrific Tornadoes in the USA from the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ

On behalf the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) these few words come to extend our deepest and sincere condolences and solidarity in the aftermath of the horrific tornadoes which assaulted your nation the past weekend.

The news reports and pictures we have seen on the global media were devastating to watch; and while we are no strangers to calamities such as earthquakes and floods it was undeniably difficult to fully equate with the images on our screens. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families whose loved ones were taken away from them in an instance not forgetting amidst that grief they also face the trauma of having lost their homes, their livelihood, and communities so on. We uphold parents who have to reassure and support their children while dealing with their own shock and pain. Undoubtedly it will take years to process such deep sorrow and rebuild lives. Ps 33:22 May your unfailing love be with (them) us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.

It is our understanding from the media that while Kentucky was the worst hit, in all eight States were affected and about 50 tornadoes were recorded. We appreciate it will take time to fully assess the long-term implications of the disaster and the focus now is on the immediate search and rescue and emergency shelter for the victims. In that regard we also pray for all the response teams from fire departments, hospitals, police, local governments so on who have daunting tasks not least forgetting they too are victims.

In time we would value knowing how this tragedy has directly affected your congregations and members. During this poignant season of Advent we pray for your respective churches strength and wisdom as you reach out and help these communities and be a source of light and hope just as the star led the way to Christ the Saviour born in Bethlehem. God comfort you all.