Church pledges support after Vanuatu earthquake

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has expressed concern and pledged support following a 7.3 magnitude earthquake that struck Vanuatu on December 17, 2024. The Pacific Area Presidency issued a statement addressing the situation.

"We are deeply concerned for the people of Vanuatu in the wake of the 7.3 magnitude earthquake which struck on Tuesday, December 17, 2024," the statement read. Communication is ongoing with church leaders and government officials to assess the disaster's impact on members and residents in Vanuatu.

All full-time missionaries in Vanuatu have been confirmed safe and accounted for. As needs become clearer, humanitarian efforts will be mobilized to provide essential supplies such as food, water, medicine, and temporary shelter. Collaboration with the Vanuatu Government and other organizations is planned to ensure an organized emergency response.

The church has called upon Latter-day Saints worldwide and others to pray for those affected by the earthquake. "We urge Latter-day Saints throughout the world, and all people, to pray for the people of Vanuatu, seeking God's comfort and blessing to be upon the people."

The statement concluded with hopes for a swift and coordinated response to aid recovery efforts: "We pray that our collective response will be swift, coordinated, and exactly what is needed to alleviate suffering and foster resilience and recovery."