Chile is experiencing one of its most severe wildfire emergencies in years. Widespread fires driven by extreme weather have killed dozens, displaced tens of thousands, and destroyed whole neighborhoods. The government has declared a state of catastrophe to accelerate response efforts, but conditions remain difficult and dangerous.
In response, the South America South Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released the following statement:
The South America South Area Presidency expresses our deep sorrow and solidarity for the tragedy caused by the wildfires affecting southern Chile, particularly in the communities of Lirquén, Penco and the surrounding areas.
In these moments of grief and loss, we express our love, empathy and prayers for those who have been affected and for those who have lost a loved one.
We are deeply saddened and express our solidarity with our brothers and sisters of other faiths who have lost chapels, churches, and other buildings because of these fires.
As we have done in the past, we will coordinate with the government and other organizations to provide volunteers and material assistance, with the desire to bring relief and hope to our brothers and sisters who have been profoundly impacted by this catastrophe.
We invite individuals, families, and congregations to join in prayer for the protection of firefighters, police officers, and all who are working to respond to this emergency, and to pray for strength and comfort for the affected families—reflecting the love and compassion that Jesus Christ taught us.
The South America South Area Presidency consists of Elder Joaquin E. Costa, Elder Alan R. Walker, and Elder Eduardo Gavarret.
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
That is sad, my prayer go out to families and individual who have been affected by the wildfire.
It’s so sad. My heart goes out to my brothers and sisters in Chile. I served my mission in the Santiago North Mission from 1983-1984 which area was from Santiago and regions north to Arica. God bless this wonderful people whom I love.
sad,,, WHY would someone lust to destroy others??????
Praying for the immediate recovery and healing may it be physical or emotional.