W. China Earthquake
May 12, 2008 by spiritualcourage
Maybe it’s just me, or have we had an abnormal number of natural disasters this year already?
In addition to praying for Burma (also known as Myanmar) and the cyclone that hit and affected more than a million people (click here to read the blogpost about it), a massive earthquake of 7.8 magnitude struck W. China on Monday, May 12, 2008. It is reported that 80% of the buildings in Beichuan County have collapsed. The earthquake hit at 2:28 in the afternoon, when schools and office buildings were full; 8500 people have been reported dead so far.
The shaking was felt as far away as Vietnam and Thailand, and has caused power outages, no running water, lack of telephone communication, and evacuation of hospitals, offices and housing. Landslides have caused roadblocks, slowing the rescue effort.
“The effects of the tragedy caused by this earthquake have rippled across the entire world with mourning for the loss of life, while also eliciting an immediate response from the compassionate,” says Open Doors USA President Dr. Carl Moeller. “As the reports indicate, the death toll could exceed 9,000. There are thousands left homeless.
“Before anything else, I encourage you to bring this before God in prayer. Please pray that God’s name will be proclaimed through the testimonies of our brothers and sisters in Christ who live in and near these areas directly affected.
“Open Doors has partnered with churches and persecuted Christians for many years throughout the China. Pray for our co-workers there. This is a real opportunity for the Church to demonstrate Christ’s love in the midst of terrible suffering.”
PRAYER POINTS:
Pray for the thousands of people missing or injured that they may they be found and treated for their injuries.
Pray that food, clean water and shelter will be available to the most needy as soon as possible
Pray that Christians in China will feel the peace and comfort of worldwide prayers
Feel free to post your prayers for China and Burma…
Taylor
