Rebuilding efforts in Chile underway despite aftershocks

Santiago, Chile

Friday, March 12, 2010

Hundreds of aftershocks have left Chileans unsettled since the enormous 8.8 magnitude earthquake shook the country on February 27, 2010. On March 11 of this week, just as the new president was officially assuming office, a major 7.2 aftershock struck followed quickly by two slightly smaller ones. It is too soon to tell yet what the effects of this latest round of tremors will have, but the country remains on edge, awaiting the calming of the trembling earth.

The rebuilding efforts are underway. The tsunami triggered by the original earthquake wiped out coastal towns. Bridges, roads, and general infrastructure have been devastated in the worst hit areas, cutting off supply routes. Many are living outside, in tents, avoiding the potential danger of being indoors.

Jose David Acosta, regional Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for South America, reported that the government has released a new and much lower estimate of casualties. No longer close to 900 people are thought to be lost; the total now appears to be under 500. The remaining 400 of the earlier estimate were displaced but are now accounted for. Acosta also provided positive details on the government response, noting that roads, electricity, and water systems are being quickly repaired and steps are being made to provide for the basic necessities of those in need.

The Church of the Nazarene is assisting in this positive response. On March 7, youth, adults, and pastors joined together to unload the first delivery of aid goods at Hualpén Church of the Nazarene. They distributed the food and hygiene items at churches, an orphanage, and a nursing home. A second truckload is en route to those anxiously awaiting the opportunity to continue serving the hurting community. Nazarenes are creatively ministering through medical care, clothes, water, food, tents, and even toys as they share the Word of Christ with their neighbors.

As is common with disasters of this magnitude, the recovery is just beginning. Please pray for those struggling to survive, for those who have lost loved ones, and for all those in positions that provide opportunities for ministry. Please also consider giving to come alongside the men and women on the ground sharing Christ's love.

Persons and churches wishing to make a donation for Chile Earthquake Relief online can do so through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries at ncm.org. Checks can be marked "Chile Earthquake Relief ACM1276" and mailed to Global Treasury Services, PO Box 843116 Kansas City, MO 64184. In Canada, checks should be made payable and sent to the Church of the Nazarene Canada, 20 Regan Road, Unit 9, Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3.
--South America Region, NCM (Slideshow available)

 

 

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