Myanmar Update

The Myanmar government has offically raised the estimated death toll from last month's cyclone to 84,500. With over 50,000 still missing, that number is sure to rise. Over 2 million survivors are in need of immediate help with food, water, clothing and shelter.

Pastor James, national leader of IPHC churches in Myanmar, sends this update: "Cyclone Nargis has calmed, but has left us struggling with many difficulties. But God is good! Among all our churches, the only loss of life was in the Lapuutta congregation, where 7 members were killed. The pastor was in critical condition, but we thank the Lord that he is now recovering. However, his home and the church building were totally destroyed."

We have asked our churches throughout Asia to take special offerings and make special prayers to help our suffering brothers and sisters in Myanmar. The first to respond were our churches in Sri Lanka, who have collected nearly $600, a remarkable sum from a handful of churches where the believers struggle daily to make ends meet. Their sacrifical generosity is a challenge to us all.

World Missions has channels to get the funds to where they are needed, without risking government interference. Funds may be donated to People to People disaster relief project #15. Click here for information on how to give online.

Jimmie & Angie Pope

"Kenya was once the model of success and stability in East Africa. On December 27, controversial election outcomes destroyed the peaceful country. Rioters destroyed homes, villages, and cities, and they even began to -violate and kill people from other tribes. Some 600 people were killed, and over 250,000 people have been displaced from their homes and communities, which were destroyed by fires and looting. Kenyan IPH churches and facilities are trying to provide for displaced families. These churches and facilities are doing the best they can to provide what little they can for these families. The people of Kenya need you to stand up alongside them. They need your help!"

(Jimmie & Angie Pope are Missionaries to Kenya and PTP Regional Coordinators for Eastern Africa.)

As the violence recedes, families are struggling to maintain hope. Thousands of displaced families are living out in the open with no protection from the elements, no supplies to provide an evening meal, no semblance of a home. Refugees are staying at the Bible College in Eldoret, Christian Ministries to the Destitute (orphanage) in Nakuru, and Calvary Worship Center in Nairobi. These IPHC facilities all need our help to care for these displaced families. Our missionaries have requested funds to meet the immediate needs of water, food, tents for shelters, blankets, and medical supplies. Will you help us provide hope to the people of Kenya? Please send your contribution to PTP project #24 Refugee Recovery – Kenya.

From Matt Bennett
Director of People to People Ministries

People to People Ministries                                  1-888-474-2966 or
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