The Dean of Nepal, the Very Rev. Lewis Lui writes on the aftermath of the 25 April 2015 earthquake

(25 April 2015) This is to give up a brief update of the current situation in Nepal. A 7.8 scale earthquake hit Nepal, 80km north west of the capital Kathmandu just before noon.  An aftershock of 6.6 hit an hour later.  The effect of the quake and subsequent aftershocks was devastating.

Many buildings in Kathmandu, especially those in the old city, have collapsed. The authorities report many trapped under rubble. The quake also hit Mt Everest, and it had resulted in many avalanches. Authorities are still trying to account for the mountaineers. Communication is slowly being restored in Kathmandu. Kathmandu airport is currently closed until further notice.

I have spoken to our clergy and pastors in Kathmandu. Our brothers, their families and their members in Kathmandu are safe, but badly shaken. Right now they are rallying together to pray and to help one another out.

We are however not able to contact our 70+ churches outside of Kathmandu, as communication are totally cut off outside of Kathmandu. We are particularly concerned for our churches near the epic centre, those in Gorkha, Bhaktapur & Dhading districts (where REC-US Rev. Jerry McLynn and Canon Bill Jerdan visited and ministered a couple years ago).

I am working with our brothers to see what kind of help is needed and how we can support them. More updates from me in the next few days. The Indian government has already mobilized relief help, and a few overseas relief agencies are on the standby, waiting for the re-opening of the airport.

In Christ,