The UN has also declared the delta area to be a major disaster and warned that the death toll may increase dramatically. CNN’s Dan Rivers reported that in the city of Bogalay, “he had seen nothing but destroyed homes for 30 kilometers and people were now sheltering under canvas covers.” Myanmar, also known as Burma, is an impoverished nation located in Southeast Asia between Thailand and Bangladesh. We have two churches in Myanmar, one in Yangon and a new planting in Piya.

Our immediate concern is for the disciples in Yangon, one of the hardest hit areas from the cyclone. Power and utilities are down in most of the city as well as in the affected countryside. A weak infrastructure to begin with, the reconstruction will be massive. (The average income of a college graduate is roughly $40 a month). With limited water, food, and fuel, prices have increased astronomically. We are seeking ways to provide immediate help for the disciples and the people there. Entry into the country is difficult, but a brother from the Bangkok church has obtained an entry visa and will make a first hand assessment this week. Hope Worldwide is also coordinating the broader relief efforts to help with the reconstruction.

Stories are emerging from the affected area. One of our sisters, who went on the original mission team from San Francisco and married a local disciple, had to evacuate her home along with their children due to devastation to their home. Many of the disciples’ homes and shelters are either destroyed or damaged. Communication with the disciples thus far has been difficult. Despite government restrictions, we are organizing Christians to travel into Myanmar to find the disciples, to encourage them and to provide support. The church in Bangkok is a staging point to funnel in help for the disciples.

There is an immediate need for financial assistance. Any help from churches and members will be greatly appreciated as this is an emergency situation. Due to the Myanmar’s banking restrictions, we are asking that donations be directed through the Oahu Church of Christ, a generous supporter of the Myanmar churches or through HOPE Worldwide. They will be able to transfer the money to ensure that it gets to the disciples. The funds will be used to help the disciples to rebuild their lives and to aid with the overall relief effort.

Most of all, we elicit your prayers for the church and the people of Myanmar.

From,

Ken Chau, Missionary to Southeast Asia

Oahu Church of Christ

Bank Name: First Hawaiian Bank

Account: 44049465

Routing Number: 121301015

Office Address:

Adminstrator: Aaron Alejado, 808-368-0627

Memo: Myanmar Disaster Relief Fund