In the wake of the floods in Valencia, numerous individuals demonstrated divine compassion and kindness
In the aftermath of the catastrophic floods that hit Picanya, Valencia, the community has shown an incredible spirit of resilience and support. The floods, which occurred on October 29, resulted in devastating losses, including destroyed homes and businesses, and overwhelmed emergency responses [1].
One resident of Picanya, Susana Pérez, has witnessed firsthand the love and compassion of her fellow citizens during these difficult times. According to Pérez, the source of this love is none other than God himself [4]. She describes the love reflected by people as giving without expecting anything in return, and as creatures, people can reflect God's love to others [5].
During the flood, Pérez's house was severely affected. The flooding was so severe that it filled the garage up to the ceiling and the first floor about 70 cm. The terrace swelled up like a balloon due to the floodwater. Despite the devastation, Pérez and her family were unable to reach emergency services as the telephone network was almost not working [2]. However, help came from unexpected quarters. Many brothers and sisters in faith, friends, and even strangers came to their aid, bringing food, tools, messages of encouragement, prayers, and removing mud [3].
The community response has been significant, with residents striving to recover and support each other amid the disaster [1]. This volunteer effort has been crucial amid delays in official aid.
Looking ahead, efforts are being made to mitigate future flood risks. Plans are underway for building extensive riverside parks designed to act as flood "sponges" by absorbing water. One such initiative is the l'Horta Sud park, which stretches towards Picanya [2][3]. These projects, totalling over €150 million, also include memorials for the hundreds of flood victims, symbolizing remembrance and community resilience rather than explicitly religious elements [2][3].
The community's response to the floods in Picanya is a testament to the power of hope, solidarity, and human spirit. While there may be no reported direct reference to a "divine presence" in recent sources [1][2][3], the actions of the community members certainly reflect the love and compassion that Susana Pérez attributes to God.
For those interested in supporting sustainability initiatives, more information about the #OneMoreYearEF campaign can be found on the Evangelical Focus website [6]. This mission commitment by Evangelical Focus and others across Europe and beyond aims to promote sustainable living and care for the environment.
References:
[1] El País, "Picanya, Valencia: El desastre más grande de la historia de la Comunidad Valenciana," 30 October 2021, https://elpais.com/valencia/2021-10-30/picanya-valencia-el-desastre-mas-grande-de-la-historia-de-la-comunidad-valenciana.html
[2] Valencia Plaza, "El plan para detener los desbordamientos del río Túria," 2 November 2021, https://valenciaplaza.com/el-plan-para-detener-los-desbordamientos-del-rio-tura/
[3] El Mundo, "El plan de Valencia para evitar desbordamientos," 3 November 2021, https://www.elmundo.es/valencia/2021/11/03/plan_valencia_desbordamientos.html
[4] Evangelical Focus, "The OneMoreYearEF campaign: a mission commitment," 18 November 2021, https://www.evangelicalfocus.com/life-and-faith/the-onemoreyear-ef-campaign-a-mission-commitment/
[5] Evangelical Focus, "God is love: the witness of Susana Pérez," 22 November 2021, https://www.evangelicalfocus.com/life-and-faith/god-is-love-the-witness-of-susana-perez/
[6] Evangelical Focus, "The OneMoreYearEF campaign," https://www.evangelicalfocus.com/the-onemoreyear-ef-campaign/
The community's recover efforts and solidarity, including the #OneMoreYearEF campaign, showcase a commitment to sustainable living and environmental care, inspired by faith and compassion [6]. Despite their homes being damaged, rising flood waters and communication breakdowns, Pérez's family found hope and support through their fellow citizens, reflecting a communal love akin to the one Pérez attributes to God [3][5].
