Latest update (6pm, December 18)
New details have been provided about the impact of the recent earthquakes on the Adventist Church in Vanuatu. The Vanuatu Mission office in Port Vila sustained minor cracks and the interior was left in disarray with fallen cabinets and shelves. Engineers have yet to provide a detailed inspection, and the office will remain closed until further notice.
“All ADRA and office staff are safe, though some family members have sustained minor injuries,” confirmed the local team. However, the town and surrounding residential areas suffered significant damage, with numerous buildings collapsed and casualties reported. The exact number of deaths is yet to be confirmed.
The country is grappling with widespread disruption:
• Power, water and internet access remain unavailable, with emergency communications relying on the National Disaster Management Office’s (NDMO) STARLINK system.
• Shops and banks are closed indefinitely due to structural damage.
• A state of emergency has been declared for seven days.
South Pacific Division president Pastor Glenn Townend expressed gratitude for the safety of staff and their families, while mourning the broader loss of life and destruction: “We thank God for His protection during this severe earthquake in Port Vila and surrounds. However, we are saddened by the death and destruction caused and pray that God will be able to use His people and others to make sure the basics of life are cared for. People from all over SPD will pray for Vanuatu and the recovery efforts. I am glad ADRA is there to support.”
The Adventist Church continues to work closely with ADRA Vanuatu and the NDMO to assess community needs and coordinate relief efforts.
10:14am, December 18
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Vanuatu is responding to the aftermath of two earthquakes that struck the region in less than 24 hours. A magnitude 7.3 quake shook Port Vila yesterday, followed by a 6.1-magnitude tremor early this morning. While 14 deaths and multiple injuries have been reported, all Adventist staff and their families are safe, and the Vanuatu Mission office in Port Vila remains undamaged.
ADRA Vanuatu, in coordination with the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), is assessing the situation to determine the impact on communities and how best to provide support. “Our team is safe, and we are actively gathering information to understand the needs and plan our response,” an ADRA Australia spokesperson shared.
The South Pacific Division (SPD) and the Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) are closely monitoring the situation and providing support. This morning, SPD representatives connected with ADRA Vanuatu to ensure resources and assistance are ready as the extent of the damage becomes clearer.
TPUM president Pastor Maveni Kaufononga encouraged prayers and solidarity. “My heart goes out to the people of Vanuatu during this challenging time. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, and we are calling on our members to pray, asking for strength, comfort and resilience for the people of Vanuatu. We stand in solidarity with them, and we will continue to support in any way we can.”
ADRA Australia has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to support immediate response efforts. Church members are invited to contribute to the fund to aid recovery and relief initiatives. Donations can be made at adra.org.au/disaster.
More updates will follow as the Church continues to assess the needs and provide assistance to those impacted by the earthquakes.
