“They are showing faith”, reports Church Leader About Latter-day Saints in Saint Vincent

The La Soufrière volcano first erupted on Friday, forcing some 16,000 people to evacuate their homes. Among the evacuees are 44 members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sheltered in the Kingstown meetinghouse in Saint Vincent. Scientists warn that eruptions could continue for days or even weeks.

“The 44 members in the meetinghouse are well. There are additional Latter-day Saints with family members and friends in surrounding homes in Kingstown, which is still classified as a safe zone. We met with sisters on site in the meetinghouse. They are showing faith and strength,” reported Alan L. Fisher, President of the Barbados Bridgetown Mission.

“People at the shelter are taking initiative to use resources wisely, especially water. We have a scheduled devotional with all of people at the shelter this evening at 7:00 p.m.,” added President Fisher. Members of the Church continue to have joint prayers every morning.

The risks on the island include continued, prolonged, and intensifying explosive eruptions which could cause immediate and extensive damage and injury to property and persons not evacuated. Specific problems include contamination of water sources, disruption of power and obstacles blocking service personnel.

Also, the high levels of ash in the air and covering the ground, can significantly impact health and inhibit mobility for needed evacuations. Broader transportation interruptions due to road damage from previous and ongoing tremors is also a concern.

Leaders of the Church in the island are providing water and food for the people in the Kingstown meetinghouse. Another shipment  with more provisions is coming from Puerto Rico in the following days. There is also a shipment of water coming from Grenada by the end of this week. Church representatives are collaborating with local authorities in providing food for other evacuees. There are 85 active shelters at the moment.