December 29, 2004

On behalf of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada, I wish to offer deepest feeling for the massive suffering experienced by the people of Southern Asia as a result of the earthquake and resulting tsunami.

Seldom have humans and all of the creation had to face such awesome force. The toll is yet untotaled, if it ever will be. Our deepest prayers are with those who have lost so much - a woman who lost eleven children, a Chicago pastor who lost his Sri Lankan wife, 2000 plus fishermen off the southeast coast of India, lost. For many of us this is simply unimaginable.

We are in solidarity with our partners in those lands, the councils of churches and all other communities of Christians and, indeed, all people of faith, who have rallied to give aid in this terrible crisis. We support Week of Compassion, our living and loving presence in this sea of suffering.

I urge all Disciples to pray and give. We thank God for the grace and strength provided to all who suffer and all who help.

William Chris Hobgood
General Minister and President

Charisse Gillett
Moderator

Disciples News Service