Latest on Japan Relief
Church of God World Missions has released this latest report on how the denomination is assisting and how individuals and churches can participate.
Situation: On Friday March 11, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami hit northeast Japan. Numerous intense aftershocks and a volcanic eruption have followed. Japan also faces the meltdown of nuclear reactors.
Status of the Japan Church of God: According to newly appointed Overseer Eriya Yatsuzuka, our churches, ministers, and members were spared from destruction and death from these major calamities. They are actively evaluating and developing a strategy with other partners in Japan to provide much needed ministry assistance.
Update on Plan of Action: Field Director Ken Anderson, Regional Superintendent Marc Morris, and Operation Compassion (OC) Director David Lorency met on Monday, March 14, 2011.
The following were suggested:
1. Priority requests are for continued prayers and cash donations. One hundred percent (100%) of gifts will be transferred to Japan. A special project number has been issued: Japan Earthquake Relief – Project Number 765-0046.
2. As soon as travel is feasible, Superintendent Marc Morris will be personally delivering the funds to Overseer Yatsuzuka.
3. Per Overseer Yatsuzuka’s recommendation, Church of God World Missions and Operation Compassion are planning to coordinate relief efforts and possible shipments of supplies through Christian non-government (NGO) agencies such as CRASH Japan (Christian Relief Assistance, Support, Hope) and the Disaster Relief Commission of the Japan Evangelical Association.
4. Due to governmental and cultural restrictions, as well as evolving secondary effects, people interested in volunteering should wait patiently for an announcement about any mission trips.
Note: Unlike Haiti, Japan is a first-world country with high quality control and restrictions on goods being imported. Only upon proper clearances will supplies be shipped to aid the relief efforts.
Japan Earthquake Relief
Project Number 765-0046
