Churches provide support after Kathmandu earthquakes

On Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26, nearly 100 earthquakes, the largest and most destructive include Saturday's 7.8 magnitude and Sunday's 6.7, caused mass destruction in Kathmandu, Nepal. The earthquakes incited buildings to crumble and induced avalanches that crushed villages and cut communication lines. The death toll, as of press time, has topped 3,000 and continues to rise as more bodies are being recovered. Responders have had difficulty reaching those in need due to blocked roads and helicopters have been mandatory for them to reach villages. Despite the pandemonium, churches are trying to help as much as they can. “Notes of a praise song carried from one end of the field to another,” reported Susie Rain of Baptist Press. “As the song ended, another started from a different direction. The two singing churches provided a sense of peace amidst the screams of neighbors sitting in open fields seeking a safe place from the aftershocks and tremors Sunday, April 26, the day after Nepal’s 7.8-magnitude earthquake.” Baptist Press reports that churches have been quickly responding, providing shelter, drinking water and food-- a volunteer group from a church in North Carolina was among those sleeping outside their hotels and is helping in any way possible. Despite their greatest efforts, it has been extremely difficult to provide sufficient help. However, when a helping hand falls short, praying lips are our greatest source of first aid. BP News adds that Christians in Nepal have asked for nations to join them in prayer; especially for the following: • Pray for basic shelter, water and food. These necessities are a high priority right now since no one is allowed back in their homes. The nights are cold, and monsoon season can start any day. • Pray for God’s people to deeply know His comfort and peace during this time. Pray they will share the One who is our Hope and our Firm Foundation with those around them. • Pray for people in Nepal and surrounding areas during the continuing aftershocks and aftermath of this disaster.