CV NEWS FEED // Taiwanese Bishop Philip Huang Chao-ming is offering his condolences and prayers for those who have been affected by the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that took place in the Diocese of Hualien on Wednesday.
“This morning’s violent tremors caused disasters in several counties and cities, particularly in Hualien, which suffered the most damage,” Bishop Huang Chao-ming said in reaction to the catastrophe, according to AsiaNews. “We hope that those most affected will be rescued quickly. Let us seek in our worries and fears the peace of the Risen Jesus. May the peace of the Lord be with us.”
The Diocese is working “to offer closeness and care,” to all of its parishes in the wake of the disaster. Apart from some objects falling to the ground during the quake, Bishop Huang Chao-ming stated in a message posted to the diocesan website on Wednesday that no major damages have occurred.
This week’s earthquake, which killed nine people and injured more than 900, was the country’s largest in 25 years, according to an April 4 Reuters report. Additionally, 50 people have been reported missing. In 1999, a 7.6-magnitude earthquake killed roughly 2,400 people and destroyed or damaged 50,000 buildings.
Since aftershocks from the quake continue, Bishop Huang Chao-ming encouraged the faithful, including parish priests, pastoral committees, and parishioners, to remain vigilant, stay away from buildings and seek refuge in open spaces.
“We remain here to pay attention to the needs and assist in the organisational work in a timely manner,” he added: “May God grant you peace! God bless Taiwan!”
