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Dear Sisters and Brothers:
On behalf of the World Council of Churches global fellowship, please accept our message of condolence for the families that have lost one or more loved ones, and our extreme concern as you cope with an ongoing grave and traumatic situation for thousands of people in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.
From 1 September 1 to 4 October, the church universal has been invited to enter into the 2019 Season of Creation. This is a time to celebrate the wonders of God’s creation. It is also a time to consider the priceless value of each living thing. In this Season of Creation, we remind ourselves that all creation – whether great or small, visible or invisible – are joined together.
It is with that in mind that the World Council of Churches stands with you, our brothers and sisters in the Bahamas. We are bonded with you as we witness how Hurricane Dorian, a natural phenomenon of creation, has wreaked widespread havoc and destruction upon these islands in the Caribbean Sea. Though hurricanes are part of the created order, and come with the natural rhythms of nature, the fury of these storms in recent times is cause for concern. The impact of the destruction is unprecedented because humanity’s misuse of creation has also been unparalleled.
As the 2019 hurricane season reaches its peak with the arrival of September, we are indeed reminded that as we journey in faith together, we continue on our pilgrimage remembering that we do so in ‘The Web of Life.” In this “web” we want to assure you, our brothers and sisters in the Bahamas, that all of the member churches of the council are standing with you in this most difficult time. Rest assured of our continued prayers and our tangible support as you rebuild and recover. Most importantly, be assured too that even in the midst of such widespread destruction you can be comforted with the knowledge that God is still present with you and that the promise of Jesus still holds true, “Surely I am with you always” (Matthew 28: 20).
Prof. Dr Isabel Apawo Phiri
Acting General Secretary World Council of Churches