The Council for World Mission (CWM) invites Member Churches to stand in prayerful solidarity with the Guyana Congregational Union (GCU) and the people of Guyana following the tragic capsizing and sinking of the MV Barima on 18 July 2026 while en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma.
The loss of lives, the anguish of families awaiting news of their loved ones, and the trauma experienced by survivors have brought profound grief to communities across Guyana. This tragedy comes in the wake of two other heartbreaking incidents that have impacted Guyana in recent days. The convergence of these losses has compounded the nation’s sorrow, leaving many communities carrying a profound burden of grief and reminding us of the fragility of life and our shared responsibility to uphold its dignity and protection
The Apostle Paul calls us to “weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). In this spirit, we ask the entire CWM family to hold GCU and the people of Guyana in prayer during this difficult time.
We call on our Member Churches to remember Guyana in worship services and congregational prayers, and to share messages of condolence, encouragement and solidarity with GCU.
At a time when grief may seem overwhelming, may our shared prayers and actions bear witness to the compassion of Christ and to our commitment to life-flourishing communities. Let us stand alongside our sisters and brothers in Guyana, assuring them that they are not alone and that the worldwide CWM family accompanies them in mourning, faith and hope.
May the God of all comfort embrace those who mourn, strengthen those who serve, sustain those who wait in uncertainty, and guide the people of Guyana towards healing, truth, justice and renewed hope.
Rev. Dr Jooseop Keum
General Secretary
