What does the Anglican Church believe about disasters like the Boxing Day Tsunami?

In the aftermath of the Tsunami that devastated South and South East Asia on 26 December 2004, a number of senior Anglican leaders spoke publically about the disaster.

These leaders reflected not only on the destruction and heavy loss of life but also on what a Christian might think about this horrific event. Responses were from Archbishop Peter Watson of Melbourne, Bishop Roger Herft of Newcastle, Archbishop Peter Jensen of Sydney, including his address on the national day of mourning, 16 January. Assistant Bishop Robert Forsyth has also spoken about the recent controversy concerning God's involvement in the disaster.

Internationally, members of the Anglican Communion are also addressing the disaster. The Primate of South East Asia, the Most Revd Datuk Yong Ping Chung, has written of its impact as has Anglican Bishop of Colombo, The Rt. Revd. Duleep de Chickera. Bishop Duleep provided this update on 10 January 2005.

The Revd Canon John L. Peterson in the Anglican Communion Office, and the Episcopal Church of the USA have written about specific initiatives taken by Anglicans to assist those affected by this tragedy.