January 3, 2005
Update: U.S. tax deduction available for tsunami
aid offered through Oblation and World Hunger during January 2005. more
Oblation and World Hunger Aid for South Asia
Community of Christ will provide $75,000 in humanitarian aid now for
survivors of the December 26 earthquake and tsunamis in South Asia, with
additional funds to be contributed based on the response of church members
during January and February.
Initial aid ($50,000 from the Oblation Fund and $25,000 from the World
Hunger Fund) will be sent to the American Red Cross. As information becomes
available regarding church members who have been affected by the disaster,
responses will be made to their specific needs.
With many roads impassable and communication systems down, final reports
from church members will take time to confirm. In Sri Lanka, three church
members are missing. Initial reports from India indicate no known deaths or
major damages suffered by church members there.
Ron Smith, president of the South Central Asia Mission Center, reported
that the loss of life among the Community of Christ family appears to be small
“but the tsunamis left hundreds of church people homeless and without food
or resources. Whole villages, like Karamba, Sri Lanka, where we have a
congregation, were washed away. At this time of devastation and fear, we rely
heavily on--and take hope in--the love and prayers of the Community of Christ.”
The American Red Cross is already on the ground in affected areas,
providing food supplies, hygiene kits, and tents for displaced families. This
agency is partnering with numerous international humanitarian and
non-governmental organizations to coordinate relief efforts.
Members and friends are challenged to donate generously to the Oblation and
World Hunger Funds during January and February to allow even greater response
on behalf of the church. All contributions to these funds above the average
for these two months will be used for further aid in South Asia.
This is characterized as likely the most devastating natural disaster in
recent history with a confirmed death toll already over 140,000 and climbing,
and more than 5 million people homeless. Distribution of supplies and
communication is still difficult. Starvation and disease are imminent
concerns. Please share with leaders and congregations this opportunity for the
Community of Christ to offer support through prayers and contributions to
Oblation and World Hunger.
Contributions to these funds can be made using Mission Tithes offering
envelopes or by mailing a check or money order to Community of Christ World
Headquarters, ATTN: Oblation/World Hunger Challenge for South Asia, 1001 W.
Walnut, Independence, MO 64050 USA.
print this page
