Earthquake in Myanmar – The Methodist Church responds and supports Christian Aid appeal

A message from Upper Myanmar

This message was received from Rev. Mal Sawn Thang, President of the Methodist Church, Upper Myanmar, by Sheila Norris of the MCB Global Relationships team.

“The devastating earthquake on March 28 has brought great hardship to our country. In this difficult time, we are deeply moved and comforted by the prayers of the Methodist Church in Britain. Knowing that you stand with us in prayer fills our hearts with gratitude and peace.

The earthquake was so strong that many buildings collapsed. Many people lost their lives and many were injured. Disaster and suffering engulfed our hometown of Mandalay. To this day, the Ambulance sirens have not stopped blaring.

Even now, the earthquake continues to tremble, keeping us on edge and forcing us to remain outside for safety.

Even now, the earth continues to tremble, keeping us on edge and forcing us to remain outside for safety.

By God’s grace, no lives among our members around the country were lost in the earthquake—a true testament to His protection. However, our church building has suffered significant damage.

The following are the ways we need help:

1. The Conference Headquarters office was badly cracked. And it didn’t even dare to go inside (needed major maintenance).
2. Myanmar Theological College main building was also badly cracked (The building is old and will need a new building). And Library building (the building is old and will need a new building). And two college lecturers’ houses were also badly cracked. They didn’t dare to stay inside and needed major maintenance.
3. In Mandalay District, Wesley Church, Circuit Headquarters and some buildings were also damaged. And Kyaukse church was also badly damaged and needed new buildings.
4. At this moment, we are without electricity, making it impossible to pump water. The city is facing a severe water shortage, and the situation is urgent.

With an engine, we could restore power, pump water, and prepare food, not only for ourselves but also to support our neighbours. The water crisis in the city is overwhelming, and immediate action is needed.

These are our current situations.

So, I’m asking you to pray for us and to assist us as much as you can.”

The Global Relationships team are in contact to enable solidarity grants to the Methodist Church Upper Myanmar from the World Mission Fund (to give to the World Mission Fund click here) Give to the World Mission Fund - The Methodist Church

The Methodist Church in Britain is supporting Christian Aid's Myanmar Earthquake Appeal.

The President of the Methodist Church in Britain, the Revd Helen Cameron said: “The Methodist Church in Britain joins with Christian Aid in concern for the people of Myanmar, and asks you to pray, to give, and to spread the word about Christian Aid's Myanmar Earthquake Appeal. Please pray for the people of Myanmar and Thailand suffering because of the devastation caused by the earthquake.  Please pray for those left homeless, those without basic supplies, and those who have lost loved ones or who don't know what has happened to family or friends.  Please pray for those involved in relief efforts, that help and necessary supplies will be able to reach those in most need quickly. Please join in the relief efforts by giving as you can to the appeal.  From £5 to provide basic food supplies, to the £200 which could provide emergency shelter for a family, all donations are welcome, but please act soon, as the situation is urgent. And please invite others to pray and give.”

Christian Aid’s partners are reporting people have been severely impacted by the disaster, including many who saw their homes destroyed or badly damaged. Access to vital services such as water, power and basic foods have been critically disrupted.

Immediate emergency support is now urgently needed, including food parcels, water kits, shelters, and cash for essential supplies. Christian Aid is mobilising to assist its partners and quake-affected communities with essential aid and recovery over the coming weeks and months. To donate to the Myanmar Earthquake Appeal, please visit their website.

Prayer

Loving God, we pray for all those affected by the earthquake in Myanmar.  Our hearts are heavy as we see scenes of extensive damage experienced by people who are already suffering from the uncertainties and deprivations of war.  

We pray for all those who have lost friends and family members, and those unable to find out if loved ones are safe or not, especially those who fear for the lives of those trapped under collapsed buildings in Myanmar and Thailand. 

We pray for restoration of power and communication, and enough information to allow appropriate relief to be channelled quickly.

We pray for all those involved in relief efforts, and for all those trying to provide logistical, emotional and spiritual support.

And we give thanks that you, Lord God, know the details that we don't know, care about each person, and are present in every situation.  May we show your compassion through our prayers and our giving.