Andhar Pradesh, India …. [Dorothy Watts/ANN Staff]
Five months after a devastating tsunami struck the Eastern coast of India, hundreds of Seventh-day Adventist families are still recovering from the trauma, aided by donations from church members around the world. While the church’s relief arm, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, ADRA, have channeled millions of dollars in aid to tsunami victims irrespective of affiliation, the church itself has mobilized to assist members in this time of need.
“I want to thank my church and my God for the help I got to repair my house,” writes Mrs. A. Anbunathan of Subrayapuram, in the Tanjore-Karaikal section of Tamil Nadu. “I was able to make a new thatch roof and to purchase cooking utensils and other household items washed away when the waves came.”
Anbunathan lost everything on the morning of Dec. 26, 2004 when the tsunami destroyed much of the community where she lives along the east coast of India. She is one of more than 7,000 Adventist members representing 1,015 families, affected by the tsunami.
The church has helped restore 143 houses and repaired and restocked shops owned by three families. Forty fiberglass boats with nets and 50 country boats have been distributed. Six hundred and seventy-two families have received compensation because of the loss of one season’s crops. Goats, cows and sewing machines have been given to members to help them support their families.
“I am so thankful to God and my church for providing me with a boat so that I can go fishing again and support my family,” says Naidu Sreenu of Gundaipalem.
Six hundred and sixty-one children in Adventist Schools were affected by the tsunami, losing not only their ability to pay fees because their parents could no longer earn money, but their books as well. Their school expenses were covered and books were provided by the church’s tsunami fund.
At least 40 orphans have been moved into Adventist boarding schools.
Initial help for clothing and food was provided from the fund, and they are now being supported through funding from Children’s Health Education and Relief International Canada and Asian Aid International.
Churches at Port Blair, Andaman Islands, Karaikal and Subrayapuram are being rebuilt. Several classrooms in various schools are also being repaired.
“I appealed to our [church] leaders for help for our members,” writes Pastor M. M. Samson of Andaman Islands. “Help came and our believers were able to repair their shops and houses and to replace their household articles and clothing. Also, we are able to rebuild our church. We are so thankful for the kind heart of our brothers and sisters who came to our aid.”
“We cannot find words to express our gratitude for the great outpouring of love and support that came for our Adventist members,” says Pastor Ron Watts, president of the church in Southern Asia. “All needs have not been fully met as yet, but we have tried to give some help to all.”
Copyright © 2005 by Adventist News Network.
