Earthquake in Papua New Guinea

This is a bit of a diversion from my posts about the Holy Land; but as many people already know, I have visited the Southern Highlands of Papua New Guinea. What you might not know, because it has had little coverage in the news so far, is that the same area has recently been hit by an unusually large earthquake. Many people live in remote villages, some of which have been completely swept away by landslides.

It breaks my heart to think of the suffering of these poor people, who were always so welcoming and friendly. The normal aid agencies don't seem to be involved (as yet); but one way of sending help is to the Diocese of Mendi, which covers the affected area. The bishop (a Capuchin) has provided an initial assessment of the damage. I've been waiting to hear from him about the best way to send funds directly to the diocese; but communications are intermittent, it seems. In the meantime, this page provides some guidance about donating to the diocese.