Archbishop calls for prayer on bushfire crisis

 Media Release

Anglican Diocese of Sydney

20th October 2013

The Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Glenn Davies, has called on Sydney Anglicans to pray for Rural Fire Service members, emergency service workers and for people and families still in the path of bushfires in Sydney and its surrounds.

"Our hearts go out to those who have already lost homes and for those weary firefighters who have already been stretched to the limit" Dr Davies said.

With the emergency alert heightened, particularly in the Blue Mountains, Dr Davies commended the practical support many have already given to those affected.

"As Christians we know we have a God who loves and cares for us" Dr Davies said "Let us redouble our efforts to pray that by God's mercy we may see a change in weather conditions and that he might supply sufficient grace and strength to our community to come through this dark hour."

Dr Davies particularly called on churches not only to pray but to consider what practical help they could give to residents in the Blue Mountains, as they face what he called "another frightening week."

Anglicare Disaster Recovery Teams have been operating in the Lower Blue Mountains, outer Sydney and Newcastle to assist with support services, particularly working at evacuation centres. An Archbishop of Sydney's Anglican Aid appeal has also been opened, with funds going to support those families who have lost their homes in the fires.