Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ and across the Anglican Communion,
No doubt you will have received news of the devastating fire that swept through Hong Kong yesterday. Seven high-rise residential buildings in the Tai Po district were engulfed in flames, with the death count now at 75, and 279 missing. Countless families are now rendered homeless, and many across Hong Kong are grief-stricken by the horrifying tragedy.
In this dark moment in time, many across Hong Kong, coming from different backgrounds, have stepped up and contributed in different ways to alleviate the pain of those affected. As fellow children of God, even though we are separated by geographical distances, I ask of you to pray with us in Hong Kong for the mercy and love of our Lord:
Most merciful God, who blesses and comforts those who mourn, have mercy on the people who have lost their loved ones to the Tai Po fire; comfort their troubled spirit, and embrace them with your love in this dark hour, that they may not fall into despair.
O Lord, comfort also all those who have yet to know the whereabouts of their loved ones, who are now burdened with worry; calm their souls as you calmed the waves, that they may have hope in the face of the unknown.
Grant strength and safety to all those who are working in the front lines, racing against the clock – the firefighters, the search and rescue teams, the medical workers, the police officers, the social workers, and all the volunteers at the supply lines and shelters – may their love for others reach those in need, and may they return home safely.
And we pray for the people of Hong Kong, for resilience in face of this tragedy, and for loving fellowship between neighbour and neighbour, that they may lend a helping hand to the afflicted, making known the love of Christ where it is needed most.
This we pray in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
The Most Revd Andrew Chan
Archbishop of Hong Kong
