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A Story of Hope for Families in Aceh

December 28, 2016
Homes constructed by World Renew were not damaged in the recent earthquake in Aceh.

Homes constructed by World Renew were not damaged in the recent earthquake in Aceh.

The Banner

Do you remember what you were doing on the morning of Dec. 26, twelve years ago?

Many of us in North America may recall waking up to news stories of the destruction caused by a 9.2 magnitude earthquake and resulting tsunami that devastated the country of Indonesia. 

For those of us who watched the disaster unfold at a distance, it may be hard to believe so many years have passed. Yet for many families in the region of Aceh, the painful memories of that fateful day will never leave — and for some the memories came back when another earthquake hit the area on Dec. 7 of this year.

Fortunately, this wasn’t as devastating as the 2004 earthquake and subsequent tsunami that awoke many in the world to the devastation and tragedy caused by natural disasters.

In the wake of the disaster 12 years ago, World Renew’s supporters responded with generosity. More than $11.5 million was received from individuals, churches, businesses, other humanitarian organizations and Global Affairs Canada to respond to the needs of communities in Indonesia alone.

This support enabled World Renew to demonstrate God’s love to disaster survivors in tangible, powerful ways. Part of World Renew’s response included construction of  1139 permanent earthquake-resistant shelters for those who lost their homes in Blang Mee, a township of Aceh.

On Dec. 7, some Indonesian families faced similar fears again as a 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit Aceh, leaving 103 dead and over 1,000 injured. While we grieve the loss of life caused by this earthquake, we are thankful that the scale of damage was less than in 2004.

Shortly after this recent earthquake, World Renew staff contacted communities in Aceh, where partnerships had developed in 2004, to see if there was any damage to the permanent shelters that had been built.

“Blang Mee was not affected by this earthquake,” said a local community member. “There was only a little shake, so all the houses are good.”

In a world in which we are constantly bombarded with the news of war, disaster and famine, let this good news be an encouragement.May you also rejoice in the news that World Renew’s work in Indonesia continues to bear fruit today, thanks to your generous support.

As we joyfully celebrate the good news of our Savior’s birth during this Christmas season, let us remember the people of Aceh who were affected by the earthquake on Dec. 7 and be thankful that thousands were kept safe. Please keep the families who have lost a loved one in your prayers, asking Jesus, our Prince of Peace, to fill them with peace in this difficult time.