As we’ve see the chaos unfold in both Afghanistan and Haiti, this last Sunday we responded with a time of prayer in our worship gathering. In addition to continued prayer we also wanted to share specific ways that you can put your prayers into action for these two countries.
Haiti
The devastating earthquake has already killed over 1,400 people and affected as many as 1.2 million residents. The search and rescue efforts are also being hampered by heavy rains from a tropical storm. Not only does this feel like a repeat of 2011 but the nation was already reeling with political upheaval as their president was recently assassinated.
What can we do?
Six years ago we sent a team to work in Haiti and specifically partnered with an organization called Foundation for Peace which is led on the ground by Haitian pastor Michel Valentin. If you are looking for a way to support the communities affected by the recent earthquake we recommend and trust this organization. You can give here.
Afghanistan
As our military presence has been withdrawn, thousands of Afghans find themselves in severe danger for having assisted the U.S. military during their occupation. Not only that but in the last 20 years many women have been given opportunities that will quickly be taken from them under the oppressive Taliban regime. As a result, thousands of Afghan refugees will be arriving in our country over the next weeks and months.
What can we do?
The Bible repeatedly points the people of God to care for the immigrant and those who are oppressed, so our call to welcome and care for Afghan refugees is clear. One way that we can prepare to welcome them is to learn about their culture and religious beliefs. With this in mind we will be hosting a seminar on September 11 from 9 AM - Noon on understanding Islam. This will be led by the Al-Ma’idah Initative with the express goal of learning how to engage in friendship and conversation with those who come from a muslim background. You can signup here.
*As more opportunities arise we will be updating this page.