Archbishop’s letter to clergy regarding the tsunami

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I know that the recent catastrophic disaster in countries near to Australia will have saddened and troubled you. I write to urge you to address the issue, especially at church services this coming Sunday. Even if you plan to be away, it would be good to make sure that those responsible for the services are briefed on what to do.

First, I suggest that we pray for the nations involved, for those who are suffering loss and for those who have been injured. A great deal now depends on what is done to offer help and to repair the damage. We ought to pray that appropriate aid will be speedily at hand, that disease will be checked and that there will be no outbreak of lawlessness. Much depends on the efficiency of local government agencies and on the justice with which help is given. I suggest that we could use the Lord's Prayer as a template for our intercessions.

Second, I believe that the matter needs to be addressed at a pastoral level, through the preaching of God's word. The scriptures provide a rich resource at moments like this, and I hope that you will be giving thought to the theological issues raised by this event. There are many aspects to this, including our common humanity with those who have suffered, our responsibility to help, the need for justice in the distribution of aid and the succour of the victims, the sovereignty, judgements and mercy of God, the tribulations of human experience and the brevity of human life, as well as the need for us to think of our own situation before God.

Third, I suggest that you give some advice to those who wish to give money for the relief of those in need. 

Fourth, although Australian casualties seem to be relatively small in number, it may be that someone in your parish has been affected. Even if they are not connected to the church, I hope that you will feel able to let such people know that the church fellowship is praying for them and willing to help in any way needed.

This letter comes with my warm greetings and prayers for the Lord's continued blessing on your ministry in 2005.

The Most Rev. Peter Jensen
Archbishop of Sydney