From Virginian Partner Synod PRAY FOR PAPUA NEW GUINEA Volcano Eruption Endangers Our Companion Synod The New Guinea Islands District (NGI) Conference meeting being held in Rabaul was interrupted by the eruption of Mt. Tavurvur around 3:00a.m. this morning, Aug. 29. Delegates to the conference were evacuated to Kokopo on safe grounds. This was to be a very important meeting with the Election of District Executives to be held. They are seeking to find a new conference location. We were also aware that very important issues were to be discussed that would affect, and we hoped, advance our companion program. Please keep our sisters and brothers in Christ in your prayers. This is a complex situation since there are no roads to the other side of the island so that only boat and air travel are possibilities. In the meantime, they are on the same side of the island of this erupting volcano. So far, there have been no reports of injuries or deaths. This was the same volcano that destroyed Rabaul in 1994 when it erupted simultaneously with nearby Mount Vulcan. The view of the volcanoes (pictured below) can be seen directly across the harbor from where the district was to meet. I think about those who have planned this district meeting and those who have traveled to be there. I consider their anxiousness in watching how the winds blow, wondering about what their families are hearing back home. I wonder about the people of Rabaul and everyone, the whole population and not just the district gathering, seeking some kind of shelter and food. I wonder how easy it is to pray at this moment, Therefore we shall not fear though the mountains tremble and fall into the midst of the sea, and the sea rise in its foaming. Psalm 46. The Lord of hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge. So let us join with them in prayer for safety and wisdom in decisions. Give to government and church leaders a loving concern for all, especially the most vulnerable. Give to all an ability to share with one another what is theirs for the coming hours and days. I am seeking to be in touch with President Eleasar and hope that I will hear from him and have more confident news about the well-being of all. Yours in Christ, Jim Note: If you are interested in more information, there are many News Stories online. If you have a twitter account, many people are tweeting about the eruption using the hashtag #PNG and #Tavurvur.
Posted on: Fri, 29 Aug 2014 15:29:09 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015