An article in Wednesday´s Church Times reported on the way the churches have rallied round those in need in the Valencia region, following the floods.
Christian communities in Spain have mobilised to help victims of the recent devastating floods. Help has included support and counselling for victims as well as collecting clothing, foodstuffs, and other supplies. In addition, churches are being used to store supplies for flood-affected areas, many of which remain without electricity and telephone links. And priests and nuns have been seen helping to clear up the streets.
In a statement on Tuesday, our Archdeacon, the Ven. David Waller, said that many people had seen their lives “shattered” by the floods, and that Anglicans would join the Church of England’s Torrevieja and Costa Blanca chaplaincies in praying for bereaved families, as well as for “the local authorities and their people as they cope with this natural disaster”.
Fr Dean from the local Anglican chaplaincy, said, “Whenever a disaster like this happens, however, the goodness of humanity always comes out. We should be grateful for the community spirit and willingness to help others which reflects gospel principles and has been so prominent over recent days.”
This was echoed by the Archbishop of Valencia, the Rt Revd Enrique Benavent Vidal, who reminded us how much stronger we are when we work together: “At such moments, we must give a testimony of unity, since only by working together can we serve the poorest and neediest,”
Our own Fr Louis was also quoted in the Church Times, in his role as Area Dean of Southern Spain and Gibraltar, as he urged Anglicans to give “practical expression to their prayers” by supporting the emergency fund run by the charity Age in Spain. “We stand in prayerful solidarity with all affected by this terrible tragedy”, said Fr Louis, “and give thanks for the resources of those who have responded with great courage and compassion.”
Read the full story here.
Support Age in Spain’s appeal here.