Earthquake in Nepal
Arbin Pokharel
On April 25, a powerful earthquake rocked the country of Nepal and northern India. Over one thousand people are reported to have been killed. All Christian Reformed World Missions (CRWM) staff and partners in country are safe. World Renew is responding.
Nepal has not experienced an earthquake of this magnitude (7.8) in over 80 years. The damage to buildings and roads is extensive and the death toll continues to climb. The effects of the quake were also felt in northern India, China, and Bangladesh.
CRWM has been in communication with all staff and partners in Nepal and nearby countries and are thankful that the only injury reported was a twisted ankle. It is uncertain, however, how many people with whom CRWM staff work are affected.
“After the big quake, everyone was gathering outside in open areas for hours and now people are finally starting to come back inside,” said Troy Bierma, a CRWM staff member who adds that some people are staying with his family in their home since they don’t trust the structural integrity of their own houses. “It has been 6.5 hours since the quake and the earthquake alarm still buzzes every 30 minutes or so from aftershocks and tremors. We appreciate continued prayers for a quiet night and especially for those who have lost loved ones or seen extensive damage to their property.”
The seminary where two CRWM staff members teach has suffered major damage and walls have collapsed. There are also cracks in the homes of staff members.
At the time of the earthquake, a church-plant with whom one of CRWM’s missionaries works was holding a worship service. Their church building is at the epicenter of the earthquake. Communication inside the country has been difficult and it is unclear how this congregation was affected.
While World Renew does not have staff in Nepal, it is preparing to respond to this disaster.
“As Christians, we are called to shine God’s love in times of pain,” said Kenneth Kim, World Renew’s Director of Disaster Response and Rehabilitation. “We are assessing possible responses with our partners and colleagues at this time. Given the devastation, we will likely provide both immediate assistance in terms of food, water and temporary shelter as well as longer term rehabilitation as those affected recover and rebuild in the aftermath.”
We ask you to lift up in prayer the people of Nepal and its neighboring countries as they cope with the trauma and destruction of this event. We praise God for his hand of protection over our CRC staff members and partners in the midst of this tragedy. Pray that they can be of help and comfort to all people affected by the earthquake.
