A pastor who died during the recent volcanic eruption in Guatemala was found holding on to the pulpit of his church.
Dozens of people have been killed and thousands displaced following the eruption of Volcan de Fuego on June 3. Among those killed by the eruption were three pastors - including Pastor Camilo Pamal, who was found embracing the pulpit of the church he led in the village of El Rodeo Los Lotes.
Marly De Armas, spokesperson of the Casa de Dios ministry, confirmed to the Spanish version of CBN News that only two members of Pamal's family had survived the catastrophe.
Prior to his death, Pamal reportedly posted a message on social media saying "empathy and love of the people could be seen breaking unnecessary religious barriers put forth by the world," according to CBN News.
Trauma counselors have been meeting survivors following Sunday's eruption, which is the second since February. Many of the victims were reportedly killed by the volcanic gases that immediately spread throughout the surrounding areas.
A 10-member youth mission team that arrived in Guatemala from Tennessee before the volcanic eruption has been reported safe.
The youth group from Bear Cove Baptist Church in Sparta is now reportedly helping churches provide shelter and food to survivors.
Church youth minister Justin Wesson told the Baptist Press that the team arrived in Escuintla City on June 1 to help churches spread the Gospel to the urban youth.
Several Christian ministries have stepped up to provide aid to the survivors in evacuation areas.
Southern Baptist partner Baptist Global Response (BGR) has partnered with a Guatemalan Baptist church to provide food and other supplies for people who are housed in local churches.
"BGR area directors for the Americas and local partners are in the general area of the eruption," BGR CEO Jeff Palmer said, according to Baptist Press. "BGR has released funds to help the displaced families now housed in local Baptist churches. We also are working with local Baptist pastors and churches to help provide shelter, food and support for those affected," he added.
