Both Prayers and Financial Support are Needed Following Devastating Earthquake in Haiti

Photo courtesy of CARE Canada through CLWR

~ posted on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada’s website on August 17, 2021

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada’s (ELCIC) National Bishop Susan C. Johnson urges members to pray for all who have been affected by the recent devastating earthquake in Haiti and to support relief efforts.

“With sadness and a heavy heart, I invite you to join me in praying for the people of Haiti and in supporting relief efforts for those affected by the devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit the region on the morning of August 14.”

The National Bishop’s letter to the church follows.

August 17, 2021

Dear friends in Christ,

With sadness and a heavy heart, I invite you to join me in praying for the people of Haiti and in supporting relief efforts for those affected by the devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit the region on the morning of August 14.

Early reports indicate that over 1,400 people were killed and over 6,000 people were injured. Hundreds are still missing, thousands of families have lost their homes and schools, and bridges and other vital infrastructure has been destroyed.

This comes in addition to ongoing political turmoil after the assignation of Haitian President Jovenel Moise on July 7th, struggles with the COVID-19 pandemic and now Tropical Storm Grace causing additional damage in the region. Haiti has been described as the poorest country in the Americas. It is difficult to imagine the courage and resilience of spirit required to address this combination of tragedies facing the people of Haiti.

Through our partner Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), I invite you to consider a financial donation to assist with emergency relief efforts for the people of Haiti. In response to this disaster, CLWR’s partners, including the Lutheran World Federation, are on the ground already responding by helping to ensure emergency shelter, sanitation, hygiene and trauma care for those affected.

Individuals and congregations wishing to support relief efforts can donate as follows:
– Make a designated offering donation for “Haiti Emergency” through any ELCIC congregation.
– Call CLWR at 1-800-661-2597 (locally at 204-694-6502) to donate by credit card or go online at http://www.clwr.org.
– Send a cheque made payable to CLWR and mailed to CLWR, 600-177 Lombard Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0W5. Please indicate that you wish to contribute to “Haiti Emergency.”

Thank you for your support!

Yours in Christ,

The Rev. Susan C. Johnson
National Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada