The Day the Earth moved. - I received the following eMail from my denomination's missions department.
There are several things of note like the info of land mines floating in the water.
Please be in prayer for those who have been affected by the giant tidal waves triggered by an undersea earthquake. Reports of December 28, 2004 indicate that tsunamis affected more than ten countries in Africa and Asia on December 26, 2004, with the death toll being estimated as high as 55,000 people. The countries affected include Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Seychelles, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Thailand. The Aceh area of Indonesia and coastal areas of Sri Lanka appear to be the worst hit areas. A significant aid effort is underway, with many countries offering assistance to the affected countries.
The destruction is indescribable. There is deep sorrow, shock, despair and fear among the people. The extent of the disaster in some remote regions is not yet known, and rescue workers continue to discover bodies. There is an urgent need for medicines, doctors and medical teams, drinking water, food, clothing, and shelter. In Sri Lanka, rescue efforts in the North and East are hampered with un-cleared landmines floating in the water. Millions of people are homeless.
We have heard from India Missionary Earl Wright, who has been in contact with the Conference President. Earl reports that about 25 people in the area near our Palavakkam Church had to evacuate their homes and they are currently staying at the Church. The compound wall at the Lakshmipuram Church was knocked down by the wave. Praise the Lord for the safety of the Advent Christian members!
The Missions Department will be sending relief money to help aid the victims in this disaster. If you or your church would like to help with the needs of those who are suffering from this tragic destruction, please send your monies to the Department of World Missions, Advent Christian General Conference, P. O. Box 23152, Charlotte, NC 28227. Please be sure to note on your check that this money is for World Hunger/Crisis.
Please keep in prayer the thousands upon thousands caught in this horrible tragedy.
Of huge concern is the disease and starvation possibilities that might occur in the wake of this natural disaster.
You might consider getting together this Sunday with your church brothers and sisters and seeing if you can raise some money to send over. I'm certain denominational and non-denominational churches have mission programs overseas. If not there are other organizations to contribute through such as the Red Cross.
Rodney at The Journey in his post, "How can we help?" has the suggestion of World Vision Australia.
Stacy at MediaSoul also has a post titled, "Help the Victims - E-Involved News", with a list of suggestions.
Update - 11:40 pm:
Tim at Broken Masterpieces also has a list of some places to give in his post, "Where To Give To Aid Tsunami Victims."
