THE Methodist Church in Singapore
(MCS) has given $30,000 to help victims of the Sumatran earthquake
and the resultant tsunami that have led to the death of many thousands
of people in South and South-east Asia.
It has also donated another $20,000
to victims of the storms and landslides which hit the Philippines
on Dec 1, 2004.
In addition, it is appealing to
its members in all its 41 local churches to contribute to the
relief fund for the tsunami victims.
All donations will be channelled
to the Singapore Red Cross Society, which is co-ordinating efforts
to help the victims.
In quick
response, the churches have been taking special offerings for
the tsunami victims and their families during their Sunday worship
services and at other church events. Several churches have taken
two offerings.
Many churches have also collected basic necessities such as
packed food, medicine, clothes, blankets, mats and utensils, and
some are helping to co-ordinate relief efforts.
Methodist schools, too, are doing
their part by collecting donations from the staff and students
and by initiating fund-raising activities.
In a letter to the pastors, Bishop Dr Robert Solomon had appealed
to our churches to contribute to the efforts by the Red Cross
to help victims of the storms and landslides in the Philippines.
"In view of the current crisis
brought about by the tsunami, and following our discussion with
the Red Cross, we have now decided to send $20,000 for the Philippines
crisis and $30,000 for the tsunami crisis.
"This is also a call to all
Methodists to pray for the situation. At this time when many lives
have been tragically affected by disaster, let us pray that the
victims who have lost their loved ones, homes and all livelihood
will find comfort in the care and concern shown by others. May
God comfort and sustain them and help them to rebuild their lives.
"Let us show our Christian
love by responding generously and compassionately, and praying
for the victims and the relief efforts."
QUOTE:
PRAYER CALL
'Let us show our Christian love by responding generously and
compassionately, and praying for the victims and the relief efforts.'