News
Holston Conference of the United Methodist Church
United Methodists respond to Japan quake
March 12, 2011
(UMNS) United Methodists are expressing concern and offering prayers for the people of Japan after a 8.9-magnitude quake struck Friday. About 1,000 are feared dead. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) and Church World Service are consulting with partners in the region on emergency-relief needs.
The Rev. Cynthia Fierro Harvey, UMCOR’s top executive, urged prayers for those affected by the disaster. “Once again, in the wake of disaster and in the face of widespread need, we rely on the ever-expansive generosity of United Methodists and all people of goodwill to help us respond to those whose lives have suddenly been turned upside down,” she said.
Emergency response staff members at Church World Service are in contact with the agency’s office in Bangkok, which is monitoring the situation in Japan and across the region. Tsunami warnings are in effect for North Sulawesi, Indonesia, and two local partners for CWS there have been contacted.
Donations can be made to Pacific Emergency, UMCOR Advance #3021317.
