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Around 550 earthquakes between 2.0 and 6.4 magnitude have affected the populations of Ponce, Peñuelas, Guayanilla, Yauco, Guánica and other communities in southern Puerto Rico. Government agencies, non-governmental entities and independent groups have provided massive help. The loss of a human life and about 2000 displaced people have been reported.
So far, approximately 500 volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from various localities throughout the island have provided help and comfort in preparing and distributing hygiene, food and water kits; as well as installing tents and providing comfort to thousands of people affected in the area. Other people with technical skills have helped install electric generators in places where there is not power.
In a letter sent to all members of the Church of the Caribbean region, the Area Presidency invited them to unite and act with simple manifestations of faith; acting prudently, spontaneously and simply, for the benefit of those who are suffering from this situation.
“In view of the situation, we invite you to unite our faith for the benefit of those who are suffering. This may include offering personal and family prayers, performing special fasts and even performing simple acts of service wherever possible,” the letter states.
A special devotional for volunteers, who were diligently serving, was held last Sunday in the chapel of the Ponce First ward of the Church of Jesus Christ, where 165 people attended. Frankie Ruiz, president of the Ponce Stake (similar to a diocese) and the emergency committee in this area of the island, offered a message of hope and encouragement to the attendees.
“People may need many things, but the main thing they need is to know that this is going to stop. Brothers and sisters, we need your prayers,” President Ruiz told the congregation.
Reports of inhabitants in Guayanilla, indicate that the seismic movements have been calmer today, which is a great relief, they say. Church members, missionaries and leaders have helped some 1,500 beneficiaries, including Latter-day Saints and many residents of the various affected communities.