We have received word from Roberta Stephens regarding the need and capability for volunteers to help with earthquake relief in Japan.
"Two rescue workers from BWA Rescue 24 - Hungarian Aid arrived safely in Narita airport this morning. They are being hosted at the Japan Baptist Convention offices (formerly So. Baptist related). We are discussing how to get them to NE Japan. We are looking into joining a volunteer group of many denominations called C.R.A.S.H including many relief groups as a way to at least get up to NE Japan. We may split off at some point to follow the needs of people in the neighborhood of our church members. We will decide this tomorrow (Sunday) at a joint gathering. However, perhaps I will go as interpreter, get them settled with a pastor up north and then return. HOWEVER, we cannot contact key pastors who would have the most need and use of the volunteers."
Please be assured that our missionaries and partners are assessing the situation. Medical work may be very difficult as the licensing issues to practice there are strict. It may be the same for clean up and rebuilding as they have strict building codes as well. Their infrastructure is sound and they will rally to help their own. This is a very different from Haiti as far as need but, just as we did in Haiti, we will follow the lead of those on the ground in Japan.
If you ARE interested in serving in Japan specifically in earthquake relief if/when need and opportunity is established, we would be happy talk with you. You can contact us at 800-222-3872 ext. 2366 or email us at BIMvolunteers@abc-usa.org
"Two rescue workers from BWA Rescue 24 - Hungarian Aid arrived safely in Narita airport this morning. They are being hosted at the Japan Baptist Convention offices (formerly So. Baptist related). We are discussing how to get them to NE Japan. We are looking into joining a volunteer group of many denominations called C.R.A.S.H including many relief groups as a way to at least get up to NE Japan. We may split off at some point to follow the needs of people in the neighborhood of our church members. We will decide this tomorrow (Sunday) at a joint gathering. However, perhaps I will go as interpreter, get them settled with a pastor up north and then return. HOWEVER, we cannot contact key pastors who would have the most need and use of the volunteers."
Please be assured that our missionaries and partners are assessing the situation. Medical work may be very difficult as the licensing issues to practice there are strict. It may be the same for clean up and rebuilding as they have strict building codes as well. Their infrastructure is sound and they will rally to help their own. This is a very different from Haiti as far as need but, just as we did in Haiti, we will follow the lead of those on the ground in Japan.
If you ARE interested in serving in Japan specifically in earthquake relief if/when need and opportunity is established, we would be happy talk with you. You can contact us at 800-222-3872 ext. 2366 or email us at BIMvolunteers@abc-usa.org