Darfur Conflict Worsens

Thursday, April 24, A.D. 2008

A new report to the U.N. Security Council describes a worsening conflict in Darfur and an ever-growing number of people seriously impacted by the fighting. Of Darfur’s estimated population of six million people, now more than 4.25 million have been affected and are dependent upon international assistance for survival. More than 2.7 million have been displaced elsewhere in Sudan and in nearby countries. Some officials now estimate the death toll may be close to 400,000. With the peace process deadlocked and the joint peace-keeping force, known as UNAMID, lacking critical capabilities and not yet fully operational, there is little hope in the near future for a reversal of the situation on the ground. Indeed, the deteriorating security situation and the growing global food crisis is forcing the World Food Program to cut its food rations to Darfur in half next month.

In the midst of this nightmarish scenario, the Darfur Emergency Response Operation (DERO) of Action by Churches Together and Caritas International continues to provide water, sanitation, health, nutrition, education, psycho-social care, protection, agricultural services, and basic emergency assistance to hundreds of thousands of the Darfuri displaced. Again this year, Week of Compassion has pledged at least $100,000 on behalf of North American Disciples to support the '08 ACT Darfur appeal of USD$13.6 million.

Disciples Respond Creatively to Darfur Crisis

Disciples congregations, members and friends continue to respond generously – and creatively - to the crisis in Darfur. Saturday, WOC Director Johnny Wray will join scores of St. Louis Disciples at Memorial Blvd. Christian Church’s 34th Annual 20K Hunger Hike. This year’s goal is to raise $20,000 for Darfur. Later in May, Country Club Christian Church, Kansas City, MO, is hosting a Darfur benefit jazz concern with world renowned jazz pianist, Eldar, and LifeWind Christian Church, a new church start in the Lake St. Louis, MO area, has planned a Darfur benefit gospel concert. And more and more Disciples congregations are joining the “Tents of Hope” campaign.

Contributions Needed and Appreciated

Contributions on behalf of the Darfur crisis, as well as the growing global food crisis, are needed and appreciated. Designated gifts can be made to Week of Compassion, attn: Elaine Cleveland, P.O. Box 1986, Indpls, IN 46206 or made online.

Coming Soon!

To be announced soon: plans for “Phase Two” of the Disciples Hurricane Recovery Initiative!

WOC Map/Poster

Click here for the latest additions to the WOC interactive map/poster. For a complimentary copy of the map/poster for your congregation, call the office at 317.713.2442 or send an e-mail to ecleveland@woc.disciples.org.