At approximately 5 p.m. local time on 8 April, a strong tornado hit the San Javier community in the suburb of San Ignacio city in Paraguay.

A 10-year-old girl from the local Church of the Nazarene was one of at least two people killed.

The tornado damaged several homes, including 12 belonging to Nazarene families. It destroyed a Nazarene church building that was in the final stages of construction, as well as a police station, school, and a clinic.

"The material damage in the whole neighborhood is very considerable, especially within our church that has been working in this community for the past three years," said Esther Paredes, pastor of the San Javier Church of the Nazarene.

The Church of the Nazarene of San Javier, as a mission of the San Ignacio church, currently has a membership of 100. According to the South America Region Office, the church has been one of the fastest growing churches in Paraguay in recent months.

Prayer is requested for the families of those lost, as well as the church, its congregation, and community.

To assist in Nazarene efforts to help those affected, click here.

More information will be posted as it is made available. 

--Church of the Nazarene South America