At least 51 people were killed in Albania when a 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck near the capital, Tirana, on 26 November. Hundreds of aftershocks have struck since the initial quake, including some with magnitudes more than 5.0, and an estimated 2,000 people were reportedly injured. The city of Durres and the town of Thumane sustained the most damage and deaths.

Many buildings have been reduced to rubble, and thousands of people are staying out in the open for fear of aftershocks. The death toll will likely rise as search and rescue crews continue to use drones and trained dogs to search through the rubble. Albania is the poorest country in Europe, making people even more vulnerable to natural disasters. Although the country is particularly prone to earthquakes, this is the strongest to hit in three decades. 

While the Kombinat Church of the Nazarene sustained little damage, it is part of a building that has been declared unlivable. Both are scheduled to be torn down and rebuilt as of 3 December.

Almost immediately after the earthquake, Nazarene pastors, missionaries, and NCM coordinators met to coordinate a response. Nazarenes are providing food and aid to families staying in tents outside the Nazarene church in Tirana. They are also helping to organize bedding for displaced people in other areas. Many buildings around the region are unstable, making the homes there impossible to inhabit. They will partner with other organizations also coordinating a response, and Nazarenes have made themselves available for prayer and support as many people face trauma.

How You Can Help

Pray

Please pray for families and individuals affected by the earthquake. Pray especially for those who have lost loved ones. Pray for those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. Pray those are experiencing trauma, that they would sense God’s peace and presence. Pray for those who are most vulnerable, especially senior adults, individuals with disabilities, and people living in poverty. Pray for church leaders and churches responding to the needs around them. To send a prayer or note of encouragement, go to ncm.org/pray.

Give

Churches and individuals around the world can provide support through the Albania Earthquake Relief fund. Donations will be used to provide for immediate needs, including food, water, and medical supplies, as well as for long-term rebuilding.

To send donations by mail:

In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to: 

Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116

Be sure to put 134408 in the Memo area.

In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:

Church of the Nazarene Canada
3657 Ponytrail Drive

Mississauga, ON L4X 1W5

Be sure to put 134408 in the Memo area.

For additional countries, please give through your local church or district, designating your gift to Albania Earthquake Response.