To
Communion of Churches in Indonesia
WCC member churches in Indonesia
Geneva, 18 August 2026
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea.” (Psalm 46:1-2)
Dear sisters and brothers in Indonesia,
With sorrow and prayer, we stand in solidarity with the people of Flores Island and East Nusa Tenggara following the devastating earthquake that struck the region on 15 August. A magnitude 7.7 earthquake has claimed at least 68 lives, injured more than 200 people, and displaced 9,963 people. Thousands remain in makeshift shelters or in the open, …
To
Communion of Churches in Indonesia
WCC member churches in Indonesia
Geneva, 18 August 2026
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea.” (Psalm 46:1-2)
Dear sisters and brothers in Indonesia,
With sorrow and prayer, we stand in solidarity with the people of Flores Island and East Nusa Tenggara following the devastating earthquake that struck the region on 15 August. A magnitude 7.7 earthquake has claimed at least 68 lives, injured more than 200 people, and displaced 9,963 people. Thousands remain in makeshift shelters or in the open, fearful of returning home because of continuing aftershocks.
We are particularly mindful of those who continue to search among collapsed structures and affected areas for those who may still be missing. We also hold before God those communities where access to food, safe drinking water, and medical care remains difficult.
We give thanks for the courage and commitment of the emergency responders, rescue teams, medical workers, volunteers, and all those who are serving affected communities. We pray that their efforts may bring protection, comfort, and practical help to those in greatest need.
This tragedy has come at a particularly poignant moment for Indonesia, coinciding with celebrations marking the 81st anniversary of your nation's independence.
To our sisters and brothers in the churches of Indonesia: you are not alone. We pray that your churches may be places of refuge, compassion, and hope – serving all who are suffering. In the midst of devastation, may solidarity become a sign of hope. May neighbours continue to care for neighbours, communities support communities, and the churches and people of Indonesia find strength in their shared commitment to life and to one another.
May God be close to all who suffer, sustain those who serve, and guide the people of Indonesia through the days of recovery and rebuilding that lie ahead.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General Secretary
World Council of Churches