CHURCHES throughout the Pacific have been urged to help communities affected by weekend flooding in the Solomon Islands.
Pacific Conference of Churches General Secretary, Reverend Francois Pihaatae said Christians had a duty to reach out to all those in need, regardless of faith or nationality.
“Earlier this year we were called to help our brothers and sisters in Tonga after the devastation of Cyclone Ian,” Rev Pihaatae said.
“Now we must assist communities in the Solomon Islands in whatever way possible.”
Rev Pihaatae said natural disasters provided a time for reflection and an opportunity to sympathise, console and strengthen people in need.
“Let us pray for the communities affected by the floods, those who have lost their possessions or their loved ones,” Rev Pihaatae said.
“But let us at the same time give what we can to help in the relief effort and in so doing become the miracle-working hands of God in the lives of people we may not even know.”
At least 23 people were killed and thousands left homeless after flash floods destroyed infrastructure and homes on the main island of Guadalcanal at the weekend.
Relief agencies and foreign governments have pledged assistance to the Solomon Islands.
Rev Pihaatae suggested that churches throughout the Pacific who wanted to help the relief effort should liaise directly with authorities in the Solomon Islands or their associated congregations.
“We also call upon Pacific island governments, NGOs and regional inter-governmental organizations to take practical measures to help the Solomon Islands as soon as possible.”
