Nepal earthquake: moving forward despite uncertainty

By May 1, 2015
Nepal earthquake_destruction
Nepal earthquake_survivors

Philemon’s family is hosting 200
earthquake survivors in their church compound.
(Photo, caption courtesy ANM)

Nepal (MNN) — There are some “miracle” stories emerging from the Nepal earthquake.

A teenager was rescued after spending five days trapped under debris with no access to food or water.

On Wednesday, first responders pulled a four-month-old baby from the rubble after someone heard his faint cries.

But, what if it were Day Six and you still hadn’t heard ANYTHING from your loved ones in Nepal? That’s the case for Philemon Chhetri, a Nepali pastor and ministry leader supported by Advancing Native Missions (ANM).

“I have not been able to contact any of the pastors. I tried, but communication is too weak and I could not reach them,” he shares.

Chhetri was able to reach his wife and son, who are both safe and were able to share firsthand updates with him.

“Our church youth are helping those people [survivors],” Chhetri shares. “Whenever people are in trouble, we try to help them.

“There is no shelter for the people, no food, and dead bodies are lying here and there. It has been a very hard time for the Nepali people.”

Helping Nepal

Nepal earthquake_destruction

A church rented this building, and worship was in session when the earthquake hit, killing 50 Christians.
(Photo, caption courtesy ANM)

Through his ministry, “New Life Mission,” Chhetri oversees more than 150 churches throughout Nepal, along with several Christian schools, sewing centers. and media ministries.

Through his national television and radio ministries, “I’ll try to make people understand how badly we need God and His help,” Chhetri says.

The long disaster recovery process begins Monday, when Chhetri returns to Nepal and starts mobilizing church members to help survivors in Christ’s name. He will also meet with fellow pastors and ministry leaders to assess damage levels and map out a strategy.

Right now, ANM is collecting financial support for their indigenous missionary partners in Nepal. Visit ANM’s Web site to learn more and join their efforts financially.

Most importantly, keep praying for the people of Nepal.

  • Pray that survivors who haven’t been found yet will be discovered by first responders.
  • Pray that Chhetri will be able to make contact with fellow pastors and ministry leaders.
  • Ask the Lord to protect His followers as they reach out to earthquake survivors and care for them in His name.
  • Pray for donations to undergird the relief efforts being led by indigenous missionaries.

Click here to see who else is helping meet physical and spiritual needs in the wake of the Nepal earthquake.

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