Oblation Aid to Fiji

Oblation aid of US$7,000 was sent to help church members affected by flooding in Fiji. Heavy rains for several days in January put many areas under water and Fiji declared a state of emergency. Susan Skoor, apostle to the Pacific Mission Field, said, “I’m constantly grateful for the pastoral ministry and outreach that Oblation provides!”

Ralph Aona, president of Pacific Islands Mission Centre, went to Fiji to assess damages with church staff there. They identified several church families directly affected by the floods. Mission centre financial officer Moana Faana said, “We are concentrating our relief efforts on those families.” Their needs vary and include children’s school materials, kitchen appliances, bedroom furniture, and materials to repair damaged homes.

According to Thomson Reuters international news agency 11 people died in the floods with about 9,000 living in evacuation centers. Water and electricity services are scarce, roads and bridges were wiped out, and many crops were destroyed.

Thanks to the generous ongoing support of Oblation Fund contributors, Community of Christ is able to respond as a worldwide church to these needs in Fiji. Moana said, “We are thankful to the World Church for its assistance as well as to the generous members.” You can give to Oblation through your offertory envelopes and online at www.CofChrist.org/worldministries/how.asp.

Thank you for sharing this news, offering prayers, and giving generously.