The President of the Uniting Church in Australia, Rev Prof Andrew Dutney, has launched a national appeal to support those facing loss and hardship from bushfires that devastated parts of New South Wales in late October.
“The fires have destroyed and damaged hundreds of homes in the Blue Mountains and nearby areas,” said Andrew
“At this time, we ask Uniting Church members across the country to pray together and offer their support for all the people affected.
“Many families have lost their homes and these communities face a long and painful process of rebuilding. I know that many members of our Church would want to be supportive at this difficult time.”
There are ten Uniting Church congregations and faith communities in the Blue Mountains area, and several congregation members have lost homes. The fires were the worst NSW has experienced for at least 45 years and a state of emergency was declared across the state.
Donations of $2 or more to the National Disaster Relief Fund are tax deductible. A variety of donation options including a secure online donation facility are available via the Assembly website at http://assembly.uca.org.au/bushfires