Bishop Timotei of Spain and Portugal has called for solidarity with those affected by severe flooding across the Iberian Peninsula, urging clergy and parishioners to offer both material and spiritual support.
Torrential rains from a cold front flooded roads and cities in Spain on Tuesday, with authorities advising residents to stay indoors in hard-hit areas. By Wednesday, the provisional death toll had risen to 72, with 70 deaths in the Valencia region alone, according to emergency services reports from AGERPRES.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, standing with them in prayer, asking our Lord Jesus Christ to grant peace to those who have passed and comfort to their loved ones,” stated Bishop Timotei, the Romanian Orthodox Bishop of Spain and Portugal.
The bishop announced that the Diocese of Spain and Portugal would join in relief efforts alongside central authorities, urging both clergy and faithful to contribute actively to aid victims and to pray for them.
“We call for Christian solidarity with those displaced, the vulnerable victims of this natural disaster. The Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Spain and Portugal joins forces with central, regional, and provincial authorities to support our brothers and sisters facing great suffering.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) also reported on the status of Romanian citizens in the Valencian Community following the deadly floods in Spain. Through the Romanian Consulate in Castellón de la Plana, the MAE is verifying the situation concerning 22 missing Romanian citizens. The consulate is in continuous contact with Spanish authorities, with investigations ongoing.
Additionally, the Romanian Embassy in Madrid coordinates with Spanish central authorities through its internal affairs attachés to facilitate necessary actions.
To support those affected in the three hardest-hit regions, the Diocese of Spain and Portugal has established a bank account for donations: ES20 0081 7330 0500 0250 9958.
Photo: Diocese of Spain and Portugal
