Seventh-day Adventist leaders in the South Pacific are condemning the act of terrorism that claimed the lives of many people in the recent bomb blasts on Indonesia’s island of Bali.

“We are outraged at what has happened,” says Pastor Laurie Evans, president of the Adventist church in the region. “Our hearts go out to the families, relatives and friends of those who died in this tragedy. We also think and pray for those who still wait for final word on their loved ones.”

A massive car bomb ripped through a popular tourist area in Kuta Beach, Bali, on the evening of October 12. To date, more than 180 people are confirmed dead, although the final death toll is expected to be much higher. Many Australians are among those dead or missing.

The Adventist Church in the South Pacific has expressed its support for the various governments and agencies involved in looking for the perpetrators and bringing them to justice. The Adventist Development and Relief Agency in Australia and Indonesia have offered to assist. The Indonesian and Australian governments are considering ways that such assistance could be given where it is most needed.

“This is a time for the community to join together in embracing and supporting those who are the victims,” says Evans. “This is not the time to condemn minority groups.”

Adventists in Australia and the South Pacific have been called to pray for those affected by this tragic event.