The television pictures of the devastating blast which levelled the port area of Beirut has brought home to Australians the dire emergency faced by the people of Lebanon.
"Our hearts are breaking as we watch the devastation in Beirut. We cry out to God for many to be found alive, for healing for the injured and comfort for the bereaved," tweeted Archbishop Glenn Davies as the tragedy unfolded. "We pray that Lebanon may be as strong as a cedar amid the unprecedented turmoil of COVID and now this disaster."
The explosion of stored fertiliser was estimated at one-tenth of the explosive power of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
The death toll is climbing into the hundreds and at least 4,000 people have been injured.
The Archbishop of Sydney's Anglican Aid has launched an immediate humanitarian appeal.
“Our brothers and sisters in Lebanon were already battling a health and economic crisis due to the Coronavirus pandemic. This tragic explosion has compounded their suffering," said Canon Tim Swan, the CEO of Anglican Aid. “We ask our supporters to pray for Beirut, and to show the love of Christ for them by giving to this appeal.”
Anglican Aid, partnering with the Baptist Association of Lebanon, will provide Christian care for the community in Beirut through local churches on the ground.
We pray that Lebanon may be as strong as a cedar amid the unprecedented turmoil of COVID and now this disaster...
You can give to the appeal here.
Main photo: VOA News
