Baptists around the world are being urged to pray for Chile after the South American country was hit by a massive earthquake early on February 27. The 8.8 magnitude earthquake has caused extensive damage, with continuing aftershocks keeping people on edge and hampering rescue efforts. The earthquake is rated as the seventh most severe in recorded history. The death toll is around 800, and expected to rise as more damaged areas are reached by rescue teams.

Raquel Contreras, president of the Union of Evangelical Baptist Churches of Chile and a vice president of the Baptist World Alliance, asked for prayer for all those affected by the 8.8 earthquake. Contreras, who is currently on travel in the United States, has confirmed that her family is safe but is making inquiries as to the state of Baptists in the aftermath of the quake.

BWA General Secretary Neville Callam said “Baptists around the world are being asked to pray for the people of Chile as they seek to recover from such a devastating earthquake. Let us stand by them during these trying times.”

Paul Motacute, director of Baptist World Aid, the relief and development arm of the BWA, indicated that BWAid is monitoring the situation and stands ready to provide whatever assistance it can.

More information is available from

• Reuters AlertNet - news website specifically with information on disaster situations
• Baptist World Aid http://www.bwanet.org/chilequake

Donations

Donations are being accepted for the BWAid Relief and Development Fund. BANZAid does not have projects in Chile. Donations given for the victims of the earthquake will be forwarded through Baptist World Aid programmes. Because Baptist World Aid uses the established Baptist infrastructure in the country where funds are going they are able to keep administration costs low.

• Donations may be made directly through the BWAid website (note that donations through this site will be deducted in US dollars and will not receive New Zealand receipts) http://www.bwanet.org/bwaidgive
• Donations may be sent to the BANZAid office, P O Box 12149, Penrose, Auckland, clearly marked for Chilean Earthquake.