SACBC Statement on the Recent Floods in the Eastern Cape

by SACBC · June 30, 2025

Flooding in the Eastern Cape June 2025. (Photo: SABC)

“Jesus came and stood among them. He said to them, ‘Peace be with you’” (John 20:19)

In the wake of the devastating floods affecting Mthatha and the neighbouring areas, we express our spiritual closeness to Bishop Sithembele Sipuka and all those who have been affected by this natural disaster. We are saddened by the tragic loss of life, offering our prayers to the families who are mourning their loved ones.

May the comforting words of peace from the Risen Christ, found in John 20:19 and repeated in John 20:21, provide you with healing and comfort, while granting eternal rest to the souls who have departed. Our hearts are also united with those who have lost their homes and possessions in the floods, as well as those who have suffered injuries, now facing an uncertain future.

We commend the relief work organised by the government, emergency services, and civil society, whose dedicated work brings a beacon of hope amid the shadows of despair. Their commitment deserves our support. We therefore encourage the faithful within the SACBC region, and others of goodwill, to make donations to Caritas in the Mthatha diocese.

Together, recognising that “the Eucharist commits us to the poor” and those in dire situations (CCC. 1397), we should become a Samaritan Church that is binding up wounds and uplifting those recovering from the natural disaster in the Mthatha diocese.

Our prayer is that, even in a situation as painful as this, affected families may discover glimmers of hope through the kindness of those providing relief, while reconnecting with the Lord who promises never to let us face any storm alone.

As we continue this journey as pilgrims of hope, let us embrace the comforting words from the Prophet Isaiah: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My hand” (Isaiah 41:10)

+Stephen Brislin President – Southern African Catholic Bishop’s Conference