Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia: Following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck parts of Indonesia on 15 August 2026, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) Disaster Response for the Sealands Field, in partnership with the Nusa Tenggara and Maluku District, mobilized a team to serve affected communities in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara.
Led by District Superintendent Rev. Juni Kristian Telambanua, the response began on 26 August and continues to provide practical assistance, emotional support, and spiritual care to families affected by the earthquake and continuing aftershocks.
Following an initial assessment, the team focused its efforts in Ngambaling Hamlet, Pota Village, Sambi Rampas District, East Manggarai Regency. The community is home to approximately 70 families, including children, elderly residents, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and a breastfeeding mother.
Beyond food, daily necessities, and temporary shelter, the team identified a significant need for emotional support. Many residents continued to experience fear and anxiety because of ongoing seismic activity and aftershocks.
Recognizing that disaster response involves more than meeting physical needs, the NCM team incorporated Holistic Child Development activities, prayer, games, fellowship, and opportunities for families to gather together. These activities created a safe and encouraging environment where children and adults could begin processing their experiences while finding comfort and hope in community.
One gathering drew more than 70 children and their parents, far exceeding the initial estimate of 40 children. Community leaders shared that it was the first time residents of the hamlet had participated in an activity intentionally bringing children and adults together.
Among the most encouraging moments was seeing joy gradually return. Children laughed and played, parents joined the activities, and families experienced a renewed sense of togetherness. Even before relief supplies were distributed, many residents were deeply moved by the testimonies, the Word of God, and prayer.
The response reminded everyone that compassionate ministry is not only about providing material assistance, but also about being present. Amid damaged homes, uncertainty, and the difficult journey toward recovery, the team listened, prayed, encouraged, and walked alongside the community.
Mr. Theofilus Tahu, Head of Sambi Rampas Subdistrict, expressed appreciation for the team’s presence and encouraged similar activities in other affected coastal communities.
As the response continues, NCM remains committed to serving the people of Sambi Rampas through practical assistance, prayer, and compassionate presence—bringing hope and demonstrating Christ’s love.
Please continue to pray for affected families, those serving on the ground, and the ongoing relief and recovery efforts.
