Contact: Taun Cortado, Gospel for Asia, 972-300-3379
CARROLLTON, Texas, Aug. 19 /Christian Newswire/ -- Gospel for Asia's Compassion Services relief teams are battling ongoing flooding in Pakistan as they help victims of what has been called the worst disaster to hit Asia in decades. Massive flooding of the Indus River system has impacted the lives of some 20 million people and left more than 1,600 dead -- with more flooding being forecast.
"As soon as the flooding took place, GFA-supported workers immediately began to respond," said GFA President K.P. Yohannan, "and three weeks later they are still sacrificially serving in the midst of this unthinkable tragedy."
The U.S. is sending military helicopters to help evacuate stranded survivors of the flooding, and humanitarian agencies are rushing relief supplies to ease the suffering.
But Dr. Yohannan says something more is needed, and GFA Compassion Services teams are bringing that added dimension.
"As soon as the flooding began, we had workers on the ground bringing food, water and blankets to the victims," he said. "But they also brought something else -- they began sharing true hope with every person they met. And that is something that even the most needed relief supplies can't do alone."
The UN estimates that one-fifth of Pakistan is now under water, with 70 percent of its crops destroyed. It may be years before the ground is productive again.
Even more disheartening, UNICEF says that some 6 million children are homeless, with 3.5 million of them facing the risk of water-borne diseases.
"Clean drinking water is the immediate need," said GFA's coordinator for the stricken area. "When floods pollute local wells, people are forced to drink the floodwaters themselves, which carry diseases from the thousands of carcasses that float in them."
That's one reason GFA teams bring clean water along with other relief supplies.
"Clean water is a definite priority," Dr. Yohannan emphasized, "and it is our joy to give out 'cups of water' in Jesus' name. Jesus said, 'As you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me.' So what an opportunity it is to minister to these suffering victims in His name."
The flooding has destroyed some 47 bridges across Northwest Pakistan, hampering relief efforts -- especially in remote areas. And the flooding is expected to become even more widespread as the waters flow to the south.
"Recovery may take years," noted the GFA area coordinator. "But we are thankful for the opportunity we have to extend the love of God by helping these flood victims. Providing for their daily needs and comforting them with encouraging words will go a long way toward their recovery."
"As far as suffering goes, this is one of the worst disasters in history," Dr. Yohannan added. "For Christians, however, it is also a great chance to show how much God loves people. It is also an opportunity for our Christian brothers and sisters in the West to join with us in bringing God's hope to these suffering people."
"It is my prayer that thousands of these precious men, women and children will find new life in the midst of this tragedy. Gifts to Compassion Services through Gospel for Asia will truly make a difference in Pakistan."
Gospel for Asia is an evangelical mission organization based in Carrollton involved in sharing the love of Jesus across South Asia.
