Dear brothers and sisters,
We are all experiencing a deep shock after the disastrous earthquake. Although, as yet, we do not
know the full extent of the loss and damage; it is clear that we are facing a very serious and difficult
situation.
Many churches and believers in the earthquake zone are working hard to help victims while at the
same time struggling with their own difficulties and pain. Let us not neglect to support them with our
prayers.
If brothers and sisters in neighbouring provinces would like to open their homes temporarily to house guests, then they should speak to their own church leaders, who can contact pastors and others working in the affected region. In addition, we have established three communication and assistance stations where the church can help earthquake victims in their area. We will be giving assistance directly to those in need from these assistance stations. You can make donations to the bank account numbers listed below.
The funds collected will be used solely for the earthquake victims in the region and at the end of the period a report will be presented to us.
May the Lord have mercy on us all. May the Holy Spirit protect us and lead us.
(Signed)
For Australians, here is a way to send funds
People International Australia and People International offices around the world will be collecting funds to be sent to the churches of Turkey to help with the earthquake relief effort. If you would like to give, you can send funds to the account below:
Account Name: People International
BSB: 122 726
Account Number: 22170361
Reference Line: TURKEY EARTHQUAKE
Other fundraising efforts
Worldvision Australia: “With your help, we aim to raise US$10 million to help the most vulnerable survive this disaster and rebuild their lives.” https://www.worldvision.com.au/global-issues/world-emergencies/turkey-syria-earthquake
Samaritans Purse https://samaritanspurse.org.au/
Baptist World Aid is active in both nations: https://baptistworldaid.org.au/2023/02/08/turkiye-and-syria-devastated/
UNHCR – the United Nation’s refugee and aid agency is a secular option to donate https://www.unhcr.org/en-au/
Syrian earthquake relief though Anglican Aid https://anglicanaid.org.au/current-appeals/syria-earthquake-relief/
Image: The wreckage of a collapsed building, Diyarbakır, Turkey. Voice of America