Volcano threatens Nicaragua congregations

Members of the Lutheran mission congregation in Telica, Nicaragua

The eruption of a volcano in northwest Nicaragua could affect members of Iglesia Luterana Sinodo de Nicaragua (ILSN) congregations. News reports say Telica Volcano, which is near the city of Leon recently become more active and scientists report increased seismic activity. Associated Press quotes the Nicaraguan Institute of Territorial Studies saying “600 workers have been moved from a factory near the Telica volcano. Women and children who live nearby have also been evacuated.”

Institute official Angelica Munoz said Thursday that tremors of up to 3.3-magnitude have shaken the 3,480-foot (1,061- meter) volcano. It has been spewing gas, ash, vapour and water since April.

Lutheran Church–Canada president Rev. Dr. Robert Bugbee has asked for prayers for those who are in potential danger and for the work of ILSN pastors and deaconesses as they deal with the situation personally and with those who are under their spiritual care.

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A new mission in the community of Telica started in January 2010 through an outreach program initiated by Missionary Maximo Urroz. With the support of Redeemer Lutheran in Waterloo, Ontario, the mission purchased property and members of the Canadian congregation travelled to the community to build a church. In an email May 21, Pastor Robert Krestick urged members of the mission team to “…pray hard for our brothers and sisters there.”

The Redeemer team was one of a record number of mission servant event teams working in Nicaragua this winter.

Western Nicaragua is geographically divided by a range of 50 volcanic mountains, of which seven are active. LCC’s mission centre is near San Cristobal volcano which is constantly sending steam and gases into the atmosphere.

Volcano spews out ash cloud by itnnews