Aid for Japan
Episcopal Relief & Development is sending support to the Nippon Sei Ko Kei (NSKK; the Anglican Communion in Japan) to help with its initial emergency relief efforts in response to the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and resulting tsunami that struck Japan on March 11. Donations to Episcopal Relief & Development’s Japan Earthquake Response Fund (https://www.er-d.org/donate-select.php) will provide vital support to the NSKK for their immediate work in assessing and responding to the disaster. In Tohoku, the Church is planning to establish an emergency relief center at the diocesan building, and leadership at the provincial level is developing a response structure to organize and support a network of volunteers to carry out the relief and restoration work. “What we can do is pray,” wrote the Most Rev. Nathaniel Makoto Uematsu, Primate of Japan and Bishop of Hokkaido. “Prayer has power. I hope and request that you pray for the people who are affected, for those who have died and for their families. Pray for the people involved with the rescue efforts, and in particular pray for Tohoku and Kita Kanto dioceses.” After the emergency phase, Episcopal Relief & Development will continue to provide additional support as the NSKK assesses its needs and makes longer-term recovery plans. The agency will be in communication with other Anglican and international bodies, sharing information and working to ensure that the overall response is coordinated and follows the vision of the NSKK. “Please continue to pray for all those affected by this enormous tragedy, both in Japan and across the Pacific,” said Nesiah. “Expecially during this time where the full scope of the disaster is not yet known and physical damage is preventing relief activities from moving ahead, prayers for mercy, comfort and protection are the most important.”
