Faith News Network

On February 27, an earthquake that measured 8.8 magnitude rocked the country of Chile. The quake took place from Santiago to Araucania, 600 miles southwest of Santiago. This is the fifth strongest earthquake to be recognized in recorded history.

“The destruction is severe, and the human toll is unknown as scores of injured seek medical help,” said David Ramirez, field director for the Church of God in South America. “My family and the overseer’s families are doing well. Later on, we will be able to give more information about the actual situation in the affected areas. Already it is reported that many church buildings have some degree of damage. Many have evacuated to neighboring cities due to their homes being damaged or lack of electricity and water.” Church of God officials are unsure at this time if there has been any loss of life in the Church of God family. However, hundreds of people throughout Chile are still unaccounted for and reports of 708 people have been confirmed dead throughout the country. In Chile, the Church of God has around 300 churches and missions and over 20,000 members, plus their families. More than two million homes have been affected and outside sources are calculating the loss between 15 and 30 billion dollars.

“Please pray for Chile!,” Rev. Ramirez requested. “Pray for the families that lost relatives, the families that lost their homes, for the water and food supply for the people on the streets and pray for tranquility and God’s peace in a nation that is experiencing fear and sorrow.”