Finding God amidst the rubble

Support to earthquake victims

Abstract

This article delved into exploring God's presence amidst the victims of an earthquake that struck the Subdistrict of Pronojiwo, Lumajang, East Java, Indonesia. Amidst the global turmoil caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the residents of Pronojiwo, who were recently affected by the earthquake, faced amplified challenges. Notably, their economic situation was severely impacted, exacerbating their plight. Nevertheless, the parishioners of Lumajang displayed remarkable compassion by extending their support to assist the earthquake victims, effectively embodying the actions of God in their own lives. This compassionate assistance gave the casualties a profound sense of care and companionship, offering much-needed support and reassurance in their distress. The research methodology employed in this study encompassed phenomenological analysis, enabling a deep exploration of the earthquake event to unveil its spiritual significance. Through interviews, the researchers gathered valuable data presented in a narrative format to capture the essence of the victims' experiences. The study's findings revealed the extraordinary faith of the people in Pronojiwo, characterized by their humility and unwavering belief in God's providence, particularly in the face of the challenging circumstances resulting from the earthquake. Their resilient faith was a guiding light, illuminating their path toward hope and restoration. Overall, this research shed light on the remarkable resilience of individuals in Pronojiwo, highlighting the transformative power of faith and the embodiment of God's compassion through the actions of Lumajang's parishioners. The study serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring presence of God in times of adversity.