Relief in Myanmar

Cyclone Nargis recently wrecked havoc in Myanmar. The estimated death total has reached up to 134,000 people.

In addition to the staggering number of deaths, confusion about allowing aid workers and supplies into the country delayed needed medicine, food and drinking water. The Church of God has 22 churches, four missions, over 2,200 members and an orphanage in the areas affected by the storm. Some churches and members’ homes have been damaged or destroyed. The orphanage has also been damaged, and the need for food, water, and others supplies is great.

World Missions Field Director for Asia/Pacific W. Harold McLeod and Special Projects Coordinator Richard Baker were able to travel to Myanmar. With the help of a Muslim businessman who translated for them, Baker and McLeod were able to get food to three refugee camps.




“When we arrived the refugees had no food,” said Baker. “We were able to bring them rice, pasta, salt, and beans.” While handing out food to the refugees, some food fell to the ground. The people were so desperate for food they fought to eat it off the ground. Baker further states: “God was definitely in this. He put people in our paths to help get the food where it needed to go. Only God could have Christians, Buddhists, and Muslims working side by side in an effort to bring relief to a hurting nation.”




If you would like contribute funds to help with relief supplies, please contact our office (1-800-535-9343) and designate your donations to:

Project # 765-0039 - Myanmar Disaster Relief.

Sharing Bread

The bread ministry team at Lee University woke up early every Saturday morning to hand out various items--mainly bread, bagels, and treats. Our goal was to reach people through our actions. This did not usually entail an intense Bible study or prayer, but rather a smiling face and helping hand. Yet, for weeks, there were no real opportunities to witness, and we were becoming discouraged.

On one particularly cold and damp winter morning, we prepared for our routine of handing out bread in low-income areas and shelters. This morning, however, we met some people waiting outside of an abandoned building. Within moments, we divided into prayer groups. People began showing us the magnitude of their need. Together we wept at the sight of an elderly man severely underweight, crippled and abandoned. That day turned into weeks. From a humble bread ministry of 3 people, God began building lasting bonds and souls for His Kingdom.

It still astonishes me the way God works through our weaknesses. Even here in Cleveland, where hundreds of churches exist, He reaches out to the poor and weak of heart. He provides His redemption and allows us ambassadors to delight in Him. What a privilege it is to those blessed and burdened by His call!

- Melody Bonilla

Melody (far right) graduated in May 2008 from Lee University. She was an Intercultural Studies major.