Disaster Relief Response

Disaster Relief Fund

Earthquake Response

February 12, 2023 – The largest natural disaster of this century, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake that shook both Turkey and Syria awake early Monday morning, has now claimed more than 21,000 lives between the two countries. As hope of finding family and friends alive fades, our partners are already in action providing relief to survivors.

World Challenge proactively sent $15,000 each to our partners in Syria and in Turkey, which they are using to provide immediate relief in the forms of blankets, safe drinking water, food, kerosene, medical supplies, tents and more, while also sharing the love of Jesus and heartfelt prayers.

Our partners are assisting others even while they bear their own grief. Church leaders and members, their families, and young people serving at the church are among those killed or still unaccounted for. At this point, nobody knows how high the number of dead or wounded will be.

In Lebanon, many houses have been destroyed, while they too suffer the same extremely cold temperatures. Because of the earthquake, there are many sinkholes, sewers that have exploded and electricity outages.

We confidently hold tight to our Father’s mercy. Please join us in prayer for:

  • - The weather conditions to improve significantly in the region.
  • - The swift rescue of those still missing under debris.
  • - The comfort of the Holy Spirit to all the families who have lost loved ones.
  • - 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.
  • - Divine peace, protection and shelter for those who lost their homes.
  • - The provision of urgent aid and relief support, especially food and heating supplies.
  • - The provision of medicine and urgent medical outreaches
  • - Our missionaries in Turkey, Syria and Lebanon to have grace, wisdom and strength to serve the people well.

 


Disaster Relief Response

February 8, 2023 – A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit southern Turkey and northern Syria around 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. 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 causing electricity outages, leaving 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. Fearing 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 for workers 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.