As he traveled to Haiti to work on the continuing LCMS long-term earthquake response, LCMS World Relief and Human Care Director of Disaster Response Rev. Glenn F. Merritt monitored the aftermath of the magnitude 8.8-quake that hit Chile on Feb. 27. At least 700 people died and an estimated 2 million are homeless in this new disaster, which triggered tsunami warnings in 53 nations and territories, according to news reports.

After learning of the disaster, LCMS World Relief and Human Care Executive Director Rev. Matthew Harrison said, “Christ have mercy, our prayers are with the people of Chile after this disastrous earthquake. LCMS World Relief and Human Care is ready to provide whatever appropriate assistance we can as we work with President Carlos Schumann of the Confessional Lutheran Church of the Chile (Iglesia Luterana Confesional de Chile).”

The earthquake – described as one of the strongest ever recorded – toppled homes and collapsed bridges. Earlier, experts said tsunami waves could hit Asian, Australian, and New Zealand shores as well as the U.S. West Coast and Alaska. In Hawaii, reports described the initial waves that swept ashore as powerful but appearing to cause no significant damage.

Merritt is among the LCMS leaders scheduled to meet with Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti President Marky Kessa during a Feb. 28-March 2 trip, but he said he will provide updates about needs in Chile as they become available. The Confessional Lutheran Church of the Chile (Iglesia Luterana Confesional de Chile) is an LCMS partner church.

On behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, LCMS World Relief and Human Care (the mercy arm of the LCMS) will work cooperatively with LCMS World Mission (the mission sending arm of the LCMS), LCMS congregations and districts, and U.S. and international partners to provide immediate and long-term relief for the people of Chile and the Confessional Lutheran Church of the Chile (Iglesia Luterana Confesional de Chile).