The United Reformed Church has sent a message of support to two partner churches in Samoa and American Samoa following the tsunami which struck the Pacific island nations. The Moderator of the General Assembly of the URC, the Revd John Marsh, has written to the Congregational Christian Churches of Samoa and American Samoa sending “heartfelt sympathy”.

His message said: “Our prayers are with all families torn apart, the many bereaved people, and everyone who still does not know what became of their loved ones.  We especially think of the local congregations and church leaders, ministers and elders who, in the midst of their own distress, will be required to provide pastoral care and practical assistance in these awesome circumstances.“

John Marsh added: “We pray to God that ties of fellowship and love, that have linked us through past years, especially through the Council for World Mission, will be a comfort and support.”

The islands are predominantly Christian. John Williams and Charles Barf, from the London Missionary Society, introduced Christianity to the population in 1830. The two Congregational Churches have a combined membership of more than 100,000 with 450 congregations.

More about the Samoan Churches at http://www.cwmission.org/churches.html

A follow-up to this story is available: Samoan minister speaks of tsunami devastation