As emergency and rescue teams search for survivors of today’s terrorist attacks, Seventh-day Adventists in the United States and around the world are responding to the unfolding tragedy.

“Even in the face of this disaster, we cannot just throw our arms up in despair,” said Pastor Jan Paulsen, president of the Adventist world church, at a special meeting today with staff at the church’s world headquarters.

Speaking with ANN this afternoon, Larry Colburn, assistant to the world church president, said Adventists can respond to today’s events in a number of ways:

1. Appeal for prayer

“We are a praying people,” says Colburn. “Already, Adventists around the world, from Kenya to Australia, Ivory Coast to Poland, are reporting their solidarity in prayer for those affected by this tragedy.”

Local Adventist congregations are invited, wherever possible, to open their churches as places of prayer for their communities, reaching out to all those in need of pastoral care and to those who want to participate in a prayer vigil. “This is a time for coming together, for joining with all people of faith in prayer ministry,” says Colburn.

“Let’s pray both for the world’s leaders, who are in need of Divine guidance,” says Colburn, “and for the many thousands impacted by this tragedy, that they will feel the compassionate touch of our Lord, Jesus Christ.”

2.  Financial Contributions

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency International is receiving donations on behalf of a concerted Adventist response to this disaster. Those who want to donate can call, in the United States: 1-800-424-ADRA (2372). Outside the United States, call: (301) 680-6049 within business hours (U.S. eastern daylight saving time).

3.  Blood Donations

In the United States, Adventist Church members can respond to the national call for blood donors. News agencies are reporting the urgent need for blood supplies, and United States residents can participate by contacting their local blood collection facility.