Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, April 22, 2026
Photo: goragospodnya.ru
The local diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church is calling on its clergy and faithful to assist fellow citizens affected by destructive flooding in Dagestan.
At the end of March and beginning of April, the region faced massive flooding caused by prolonged heavy rains. According to emergency services, the disaster affected thousands of homes, left parts of settlements without electricity, and destroyed bridges and roads. In mountainous areas, heavy rains triggered rockfalls and landslides. Infrastructure facilities were damaged, including gas pipelines, and in several regions, authorities declared a state of emergency, reports the Makhachkala Diocese.
In response, His Eminence Archbishop Varlaam of Makhachkala called on his diocese to help those affected.
On Pascha Sunday, all parishes of the diocese held targeted fundraising for residents who lost their homes and property. Charity fairs benefiting flood victims were also held in Makhachkala on April 16 and 19.
Abp. Varlaam’s appeal also received support from other dioceses of the Russian Church.
In particular, with support from the Head of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic Rashid Temrezov, the Pyatigorsk Diocese conducted a humanitarian campaign.
“In days of difficulty and trials, all of the Caucasus becomes one big family,” His Eminence Archbishop Theophylact of Pyatigorsk noted in a telephone conversation with Abp. Varlaam. “At the foundation of all our traditions is helping those who have fallen into trouble. This is as natural for us as hospitality, and as dear to the people of the Caucasus as family honor. Therefore, we could not stand aside, and have combined our prayers with material assistance. I ask you to accept this support and pass it on to those in need with our heartfelt sympathy.”
All collected funds will be transferred in the near future to families most severely affected by the natural disaster.
Follow OrthoChristian on Facebook, Twitter, Vkontakte, Telegram, WhatsApp, MeWe and Gab!
