On 15 August 2026, a strong magnitude 7.7 earthquake hit Flores, Indonesia, causing extensive destruction and leaving at least 116 people dead, 1,678 injured, and over 161,000 people displaced. More than 77,900 people were reported to be living in evacuation centres, while homes, schools, places of worship and other facilities were damaged. Many families are now facing the difficult process of rebuilding their lives.
Just two weeks later, on 26 August, another tragedy struck the Himalayan region. A glacial collapse triggered devastating flash floods and mudslides along the Nepal–Tibet border, sweeping through villages, roads and communities. At least 470 people have lost their lives, with hundreds still missing. Rescue and relief efforts are continuing under very difficult conditions.
These tragedies remind us that tragedy or suffering can come suddenly and without warning. Behind every number is a family, a child, an elderly person or someone who has lost a home, a loved one, or the stability of daily life.
As Christians, we cannot remain indifferent to the sufferings of others. Our faith calls us to see, empathise, and act. The spirit of humanitarianism is very much at the heart of the Gospel: to reach out to those in need, to share what we have and to assure people in moments of darkness that they are not forgotten nor are they alone.
In response, the Church of St Thomas the Apostle, Kuantan, is appealing to our Parishioners, as well as the wider community, to support our humanitarian relief efforts. Our immediate focus is to collect essential goods and prepare a container of supplies for families affected by the flash floods in Nepal and Tibet. Our goal right now is to extend our assistance to those affected.
You may contribute essentials such as rice, canned food, biscuits, instant noodles, cooking oil, milk, toiletries, sanitary products, diapers, towels, blankets, sleeping mats, buckets and other practical household necessities. Food items should preferably have a long expiry date, ideally at least 6–12 months. Please ensure all donated items are clean, safe, and in good condition. Thereafter, you may send these to the Church of St Thomas, Kuantan (8.00 am to 9.00 pm), by 6 September 2026.
Those who wish to make cash contributions can inquire at the Parish Office (09-5177106) or email: stthomas@archkl.org
This coming week, we will deliver financial aid through the Caritas of the Diocese of Flores, Indonesia, instead of shipping a container of goods due to logistical challenges. Let’s keep those affected families in our prayers and turn our prayers into concrete acts of love and compassion.
We may not be able to rebuild an entire village or replace everything that has been lost. But we can do something. Let us therefore put our faith into action. Together, let us show compassion and become channels of God’s love, mercy and hope.
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