WCC joins Zimbabwe churches in prayer after ferry tragedy

WCC joins Zimbabwe churches in prayer after ferry tragedy

msc

Tue, 08/18/2026 - 16:49

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, in a letter to the Zimbabwe Council of Churches and WCC member churches in Zimbabwe, expressed heartfelt solidarity to the people of Zimbabwe, and especially to the families and communities affected by the tragic ferry disaster on Lake Kariba.

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Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC

“ We have learned with profound sadness that the death toll from the capsizing of the ferry has risen to at least 92 people, with search and recovery operations continuing,” wrote Pillay. “ Among those who have lost their lives are 18 children.”

Behind these numbers, Pillay noted, are mothers and fathers, children and young people, relatives, friends, neighbours and members of communities whose lives have been changed forever.

“ At this painful moment, we stand alongside the churches and people of Zimbabwe,” Pillay wrote. “ We join you in prayer, mourning, and compassion.”

He prayed that the churches may be places of refuge, consolation, and practical support for all those…