Thursday, January 21
BMAA Departmen of Missions sends relief funds to Haiti.
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Haiti Relief
By Phl Knott, Director of Operations for Latin America
Many calls have been coming into our office about Haiti following the recent earthquake. It is a disaster of immense proportions for a nation already suffering from great economic and political struggles. Our hearts and prayers are certainly go out to those whose lives are now in ruin. The extent of death and suffering in Port-au-Prince is unimaginable.
Our missions department is preparing to help and we anticipate opportunities in the future for BMMI medical teams, work crews, assistance and rebuilding projects. We are affiliated with some churches in Haiti, a couple of them in Port-au-Prince, and there are also Haitian nationals in our churches in the Dominican Republic. Communication is still very difficult at this time.
One of the latest reports I have received is from Percois Norcilus, son of Pastor Francois Norcilus. Percois relates that his mother's sister and her grandchild died when their home collapsed, that a cousin was injured, and that others of his cousins are still missing. When asked about the churches and schools related to Pastor Francois' ministry, he added, "He doesn't know yet. He is still trying to get to those areas. It is difficult to reach him by phone. I am waiting for him to call." His mother is at home in Bombardapolis and his father is in Port-au-Prince helping with the relief efforts. There was apparently little damage in the central and northern regions of the country.
The BMAA Department of Missions is not a relief agency and as such not equipped as first responders, especially in a disaster of this magnitude. Haiti has many international relief and aid organizations on the ground and help is being mobilized from the U.S. and nations around the world. It’s difficult to estimate how long this first phase of rescue and recovery will last.
In light of this, we suggest that you consider helping in the following ways:
· If you or your church anticipate contributing for future assistance through the our office—medicine, BMMI teams, food, rebuilding, etc.—send your donation to the BMAA Department of Missions and indicate that it is for Haiti Relief. Be assured that all donations sent with a specific designation will be used for that purpose. Please do not send food or clothing at this time.
· If you would like to volunteer or help organize a ministry team in the future, please write us at bmmi@bmaam.com
· If you want to help with immediate needs, you could contribute directly to a relief agency of your choice—The Red Cross; The Salvation Army; etc. They are already there and are equipped to help in this crisis.
Announcements will be made as plans develop. Be sure to check our website for updates. These will also appear in associational publications. Also, please contact us and share information you might have concerning the crisis in Haiti.
