April 20, 2022

Lott Carey has committed to support communities affected by severe flooding in South Africa.

Hundreds of lives were lost, tens of thousands of persons have been displaced, and entire communities were devastated by the floods that affected the country April 11 and 12.

Devastated areas include parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.

Baptist Convention of South Africa General Secretary Dr. Thembelani Jentile told Lott Carey it was “with heavy heart that we inform you of the dark cloud that has befallen our country.”

At the time of writing, he said “443 are confirmed deceased and 48 people are missing or unaccounted for, especially in informal settlements.”

In addition, he said “4,000 homes have been completely destroyed; over 8,300 homes have been partially damaged; 40,000 people have been displaced; more than 600 schools and sixty-six (66) public health care facilities have been damaged.”

Dr. Jentile “pleads for your prayers for the safety of the people of South Africa, particularly the most vulnerable in KwaZulu-Natal. Kindly pray for the families of the deceased, displaced and the missing.”

“I am saddened by the news of yet another natural disaster that has taken the lives of so many,” said Lott Carey Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rev. Emmett Dunn. “Having visited these communities a few years ago, I am acutely aware of the economic challenges brought on by many years of Apartheid rule. No doubt, they will need our assistance.”

He said, “The Baptist Convention of South Africa, a longstanding Lott Carey partner, is sounding the Macedonian Call…Let us respond as we have always done, with prayers and financial assistance.”

Rev. Dunn appeals “to churches, institutions, organizations and persons of goodwill to join Lott Carey in bringing relief, comfort, and hope to those in need.”

Donations may be made at https://lottcarey.org/donate.

For additional information, email lottcarey@lottcarey.org.