Archbishop Appeals for Humanitarian Assistance in Haiti
From the Most Revd Alan Harper, OBE, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland
The tragedy of the devastating earthquake in Haiti on top of the wreckage caused by hurricanes in 2008 has left what is already the poorest community in the Western world even more traumatized and impoverished. My heart goes out to the survivors, both those suffering injuries and the bereaved. I pray for the success of the international response to the disaster and I encourage all those who feel able to do so to contribute financially to assist the people of Haiti at this terrible time.
Church of Ireland Bishops' Appeal, the Church's World Aid and Development Programme, is today donating an initial €20,000 towards the emergency relief effort. The funds will be sent through Christian Aid who have partners working in the country. The Archbishop of Dublin and I are appealing for further donations for relief and would suggest that collections be held in churches as soon as possible and sent through Bishops’ Appeal.
Individuals wishing to donate in euro or sterling may also send contributions to the Church of Ireland Bishops’ Appeal, Church of Ireland House, Church Avenue, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Please mark such donations 'Haiti Appeal’.
The Disasters Emergency Committee has issued an appeal in the public arena and I am warmly supportive of it too. I also note that the Dean of Belfast (‘Black Santa’) is providing facilities for people to make contributions at St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast, which will be distributed as appropriate - I also fully commend this effort.
I know that in churches throughout the Church of Ireland in the coming days and weeks prayers will be offered for the injured and bereaved, for the safety of those attempting to render assistance and for the rebuilding of community life in Haiti. I join my prayers with those of others of many denominations for the wellbeing of all affected by the earthquake.
+Alan Armagh
Also on behalf of +John Dublin and +Michael Cashel and Ossory, Chair of the Bishops’ Appeal Committee