Geneva, 27 January 2011


Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephes. 1:2).

The worldwide church community has been following with great concern the critical situation in southeastern Brazil where heavy rainfall has led to massive landslides leaving more than 800 people dead, another 400 people missing, thousands made homeless as well as causing extensive damage to several towns.

We are praying for the victims of this natural disaster. We offer encouragement to the local and national authorities who are working along with Brazilian churches and international organizations such as the Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance in their efforts to alleviate the suffering of the people, bring support to the most vulnerable and rebuild this part of the country.

As we continue to accompany you in this critical moment, we remind you of the Apostle Paul’s words to the Romans: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints” (Rom. 12:12-13).

May our Lord and Saviour bless you in your work and bring peace to those who are suffering.

Your brother in Christ,

Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit
General secretary of the WCC