Tsunami Death Toll Rises in Java

Tuesday, July 18, A.D. 2006

The death toll from the tsunami that struck the Indonesian island of Java Monday has now grown to more than 300 people and is expected to increase as rescuers search through the rubble. Especially hard hit is the west Java resort town of Pangandaran. Indonesia is still recovering from the massive tsunami that struck 12 Indian Ocean countries on December 26, 2004, and the earthquake that struck Java just seven weeks ago.

The three Action by Churches Together (ACT) partners in Indonesia who are already responding to the '04 tsunami and the Java quake (including Church World Service) are now on the ground assessing needs and preparing a coordinated response to this new disaster. ACT is expected to issue an emergency grant from its Rapid Response Fund this week and will later issue an appeal to ACT members for additional relief and recovery work. Week of Compassion will respond promptly on behalf of the Disciples.

War Widens in Southern Lebanon

The outbreak of war in southern Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah has killed more than 250 people, sent thousands of people fleeing their homes and raised tensions and fears throughout the region. Foreign governments are scrambling to evacuate their citizens from Lebanon.

ACT member (and longtime Disciples and CWS partner), the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), is urgently working with other organizations to assess needs of the displaced and organize a coordinated humanitarian response to the crisis. Based on the most current information from the field, the most urgent needs are for: matresses/bedding; water; food; milk for infants; medicines; first aid kits; kitchen supplies; and cleaning supplies.

MECC is preparing a request for ACT Rapid Response funding, and ACT will most likely issue a larger appeal to its members to which WOC will respond accordingly. Earlier this month WOC made a grant to the ACT Rapid Response Fund to facilitate ACT's capacity to respond immediately to emergencies like the strife in southern Lebanon and the Java tsunami.

A "Shard" of Hope from Louisiana

While so much of the world is marked by violence, mistrust, strife, fear and despair, it is always good to hear stories of reconciliation and hope. One of those good stories is taking place at Grace Disciples Church in Covington, LA. Grace is one of five Disciples Mission Stations WOC is currently supporting as part of our long-term hurricane response. Click hear to read about "the Ministry of the Shards."