Disaster Relief Response

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit southern Turkey and northern Syria near 4 a.m. Monday, February 6. Tremors from the powerful quake were felt as far away as Lebanon and Israel, with aftershocks reverberating throughout the day. At least 3,800 are confirmed dead between the two countries.

 “This situation is a perfect storm,” says Mark Renfroe, Director of Missions for World Challenge. “Many Syrian refugees fled to eastern Turkey to find safety and solace. Instead, they were stranded in Turkey and are now experiencing the consequences of the tragic earthquake

Thousands of houses and buildings were destroyed, becoming rubble in mere seconds. And without shelter, thousands of now-homeless people are in the streets, barely enduring the extreme elements, snow, freezing weather and heavy rains. The earthquake left many sinkholes, exploded sewers and lack of electricity, leaving only severely limited resources for rescue operations and basic relief.

People are in shock, suffering unforgettable trauma. There is a great fear and panic in the streets. Feeling their damaged homes, people are gathering in the open squares.

The Christian church in the affected areas is spiritually strong, but extremely small. Some church leaders are thought to be buried in the rubble. They have little or no hope apart from Christ.

World Challenge Partners continue to assess the situation and are actively engaged in relief efforts, currently providing blankets, food and heating supplies.

We will provide updates as they are received from our Field partners in Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon.

Will you please join us in prayer for:

• - Our partners who are offering hope in the midst of their own personal loss and pain. May the comfort of the Holy Spirit be with all who lost loved ones, and wisdom in how to best respond to this tragedy.
• - The swift rescue of church leaders and others who are still missing, trapped under debris.
• - The local churches to find their strength in the Lord during this difficult time and be a beacon of strength and support for those who are suffering.
• - Aftershocks and tremors to stop immediately. For relief from harsh weather, enabling and rescue efforts.  
• - Divine peace, protection, and shelter for those who lost their homes.
• - The provision of urgent aid and relief support, especially food, heating supplies, medicine and medical supplies.