Our Moravian Friends in Nepal Share Some Post-Earthquake Snippets

Updating the previous post about our friends in Kathmandu--the Pradhams and the Holmbergs--we have learned that they have been able to return to their (damaged) homes, and that electricity was restored in their neighborhood only moments ago. Trina reports that they are just now beginning to understand the scope of the earthquake damage as they are seeing the TV images for the first time. She requests everyone's ongoing prayers.

I understand the the Canadian government provided an opportunity for its citizens to be evacuated from Nepal yesterday. I also understand that Ken and Trina declined to leave, preferring to remain with their Nepalese neighbors and offer whatever care and assistance they can at this time. What a beautiful spirit!

Here are links to some videos Ken took with his cell phone showing the temporary shelter shared by 30 or so people as they made do since the quake on Saturday. I suspect you'll have your heart warmed by the clip of the Nepalese Moravians singing.

Caring for One Another after the Earthquake

Shelter after the Nepal Earthquake

Singing After the Earthquake

If you feel led to provide financial support through the organization Moravian Disaster Response, please see the previous post for contact information.

Our Neighbors in Nepal Could Use Your Help

The earthquake that rocked the nation of Nepal on Saturday happened half a world away from Ohio, and yet the Nepalese are closer neighbors than you might think. Did you know that there is a Moravian congregation in Kathmandu, or that missionaries with a regional tie to ministry in the Midstates are presently living there? The Rev. Trina Holmberg and her husband Ken recently served the Unionville, Michigan congregation and are known by many Ohio Moravians through church camp connections.

In the quake’s aftermath, it was a relief to learn that the people with whom we have the most personal contact are safe. The Board of World Mission reported on Monday: Trina and Ken Holmberg, currently serving in Nepal through the Board of World Mission, are working with Shanti and Vani Pradhan and their son Nahum. They have been in contact to let us know that they are all ok. However there is much damage in their area and as they were without power, are just beginning to be able to assess the needs in their area.

The Pradhams, the Holmbergs, and about 30 other people affiliated with the Moravian Church  are camped out in tents out in the rice fields near Khokana (a few miles from the city). Many people in Khokana lost their homes. The Pradhan’s home was not destroyed, but has a lot of interior damage. They are not allowed to go home at this time. Relief efforts have begun, so they are receiving some needed food and supplies

If you are looking for a way to donate funds, you might wish to support Moravian Disaster Response (MDR) as it partners in the recovery. An online giving form can be found at moravianmission.org/give. 
(In the comments, designate your donation for “Moravian Disaster Response.") 

Or you may send your donation directly to:

The Board of World Mission

PO Box 1245

Bethlehem, PA 18016

(Please write “Moravian Disaster Response” on the memo line)

Stay tuned for more updates...and please keep these sisters and brothers in your prayers.