Dr. Abdul Messiah, son of K.K. Alavi, and the administrator of our NHMS partnership in the flood-ravaged state of Kerala, India, has shared the story of the worst flood in a century in the Kerala state in India and also how the Bishara community is seeking to respond.
Abdul reported that, in the last three weeks, 320 lives have been lost, 600,000 whose homes were damaged or destroyed are in relief camps, and millions of acres of crops were lost. You can see from the images the devastation of the effects of the flooding.
Christianity in this mostly Hindu and Muslim land are seeking to be bold in their response. The campus at Bishara was mostly spared any damage, although it does face challenges to get fuel to cook meals for the Bible College students, staff and others serving the mission. As they gratefully try to answer God’s call to serve their neighbors most basic needs, Abdul has reached out to us for support as our Lord leads us to do out of abundance.
The Bishara community has what may seem like an audacious goal. They hope to provide the following to 200 families living in their area.
Non-food items: bed sheets, mosquito nets, towels, utensils, torchlight, mats, blankets, tarpaulins, and nylon rope – $45.00.
Hygiene kit and dry rations (one month supply of rice, green grain, biscuits, sugar, and cooking oil) – $45.00.
The New Hope Mission Society board invite gifts above and beyond normal giving in any amount you are called to give. Gifts large and small will be a blessing to those in need and encouragement to our friends at Bishara serving on our behalf.
MARK ANY GIFT AS “FLOOD RELIEF”.
NHMS will send gifts as they come to us. We know that supporters of NHMS will continue to give generously to undergird the ongoing ministries at Bishara, outreach to Muslims and the Shaliach’s Bible College.
Please send donations to:
New Hope Mission Society
c/o Faith Lutheran Church
335 Main St S
Hutchinson, MN 55350