Seismic map of the earthquake on September 9, 2023. Courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey.

Seismic map of the earthquake on September 9, 2023. Courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey.

We mourn today for the thousands of families impacted by a powerful earthquake in Morocco on Friday. More than 2,600 people are known to have died from the 6.8 magnitude quake, and that number will increase in the days and weeks ahead as recovery efforts continue. Thousands more have been injured or left homeless as buildings, homes, and historic structures were toppled.

Our hearts break for the mothers and fathers who lost children, for the children who lost parents, and for the many who have lost everything. We pray for God’s loving hand to reach out to every individual who must now dig out from the rubble and begin again.

We have heard the cries of many who say their lives have been destroyed and have no hope for the future. But we serve a loving and compassionate God who will not forsake those in the path of destruction. Even now, God’s guiding hand is working with rescue and recovery groups to get people the help they need.

I join other faith leaders around the world when I say that God has not abandoned those who are suffering. God is with the rescue workers as they carefully remove debris from homes and buildings in search of survivors. God is with emergency medical teams as they work quickly to administer aid. God is providing words of comfort through ministry and support services teams as they help families recover from the shock of this tragedy. God is amongst them.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) stands ready to support the recovery efforts and will continue to work with our international partners to help survivors recover from this tragedy. For those interested in supporting the rescue and recovery efforts in Morocco, contributions can be made through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance by sending gifts to DR999999 and referencing Morocco.

 

Acting Stated Clerk Signature
Rev. Bronwen Boswell
Acting Stated Clerk of the General Assembly
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)