Kerala Archbishop Appeals for Flood Relief, Citing Scripture and Christian Solidarity

Archbishop Thomas Tharayil of Changanacherry has appealed to Catholics to support people affected by severe flooding in Kerala, encouraging the faithful to respond with compassion and Christian solidarity. In a pastoral circular, the archbishop highlighted the difficulties faced by flood-affected families, including children unable to attend school and patients experiencing serious hardships. Within the Archdiocese of Changanacherry, more than 4,000 families across 92 parishes were reportedly affected by the floods. Heavy rains in parts of Kerala during August caused significant flooding. According to the report, at least 15 people died and seven remained missing, while more than 10,000 people sought shelter in over 300 relief camps across the state. Citing Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ,” Archbishop Tharayil described assistance to flood victims as an important Christian responsibility. The archdiocese dedicated the Sunday offertory collection on August 16 to flood relief. The funds are being used through the Changanacherry Social Service Society, the archdiocese's social service wing, to support relief and rehabilitation activities. Support Beyond Religious Boundaries Archbishop Tharayil said that helping people without discrimination based on caste or creed has been an established tradition of the archdiocese. He also recalled the archdiocese's previous relief efforts. Last year, it reportedly transferred ₹50 lakh to support victims of the Wayanad landslides. The archdiocese said that 72 houses had already been completed in the affected area, while construction of around 100 additional houses was underway. Call for Long-Term Flood Prevention Beyond immediate relief, the archbishop also called for stronger long-term flood-prevention measures. He appealed to authorities to take sustained action rather than focusing on flood mitigation only when disasters occur. He specifically pointed to the need for maintaining and deepening streams, canals and lakes as possible measures to help control flooding. The archbishop also appreciated the efforts of public representatives, government authorities and local volunteers. Members of the Syro-Malabar Youth Movement had volunteered to clean houses affected by floodwaters. Concluding his appeal with another biblical reference, Archbishop Tharayil encouraged Catholics to “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep,” urging the community to respond to the disaster through compassion, service and faith.