Earthquake in China

OM International

It is one week since a 7.9-maginitude earthquake struck China's western provinces, causing a death toll that has officially risen to 32,476 but is expected to top 50,000. Tens of thousands of homeless survivors have taken refuge at camps set up by the government and relief organisations. These people face condition that still threaten their lives. Clean drinking water, adequate food and proper sanitations are just some of the many challenges.

A team of 12 people is based in one city. Two workers were in one of the areas hardest hit by the earthquake. 80% of the city's buildings were flattened, including the apartment they rented. Within three days, the team leader was in the disaster area and brought relief items for these two brothers. One remained to help find the bodies of their landlord and other friends still buried under the rubble.

Workers are meeting with leaders of other relief organisations to determine our response and role. They are looking at a commitment that will take many years to help these people rebuild their homes, schools, lives and hope. Please pray for all involved.

Credit: OM International
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Earthquake in China
22 May, 2008
It is one week since a 7.9-maginitude earthquake struck China's western provinces.

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Forced resettlement scattered six million Tibetans across China. The teaching of the Tibetan language was forbidden to a whole generation. Approximately 2.4 million now live in their homeland but in Lhasa they are said to be outnumbered and marginalized by Han Chinese. An estimated million Tibetans have died through the years in protests and revolts. Talking politics can still fetch a 20-year prison sentence. Even foreigners are occasionally arrested and accused of passing on information to the Dalai Lama.

Tourism was for very many years discouraged, but Lhasa is now a trendy destination for Chinese tourists who marvel at the city's unusual quality of light. Others who wish to visit--usually limited to adventurous mountain-climber types-must obtain a Chinese visa.