14 November 2016

New Zealand earthquakes

This morning we have woken to news of the severe earthquake that hit New Zealand just after midnight (14th November 2016).  It was a magnitude 7.5 centred near Hanmer Springs in the South Island, and has been followed by dozens of aftershocks throughout central New Zealand, most of them quite large in the order of magnitude 4 through to 5.3. This initial earthquake was up to 15 times larger than those which hit Christchurch in 2010/11.

Reports are still coming in about damage caused by events that have affected the country from Christchurch through to Wellington. 2 fatalities are confirmed at this stage. Strong aftershocks are being felt as far north as central New Zealand. Some damage has occurred in downtown Wellington, and people have been asked not to come into the city today. Most schools are closed through the central parts of the country, and public transport has been temporarily shut down.

The Lutheran Church of New Zealand is gathering information on how its members are faring at this stage and little is known as of yet.

Bishop Mark Whitfield has requested the prayers of his sisters and brothers throughout the LCA for the people of New Zealand and for the members of the church.

God our Father,
You set the earth on its foundation.
Keep us safe from the danger of earthquakes
and let us always feel the presence of your love.
May we be secure in your protection
and serve you with grateful hearts.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God forever and ever. Amen.

[Prayer in Time of Earthquake, Catholic Diocese of Christchurch]

John Henderson
Bishop, Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand

Mark Whitfield,
Bishop, Lutheran Church of New Zealand