Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. Psalm 42:11 (ESV)
It is easy to become discouraged, easier yet to be disturbed.
We are very grateful for the MannaPack meals with which we are feeding many hungry people. To give you an idea of how far one pack goes, 17 packs were used yesterday to feed over 2,000 people.
Thank you for your prayers and concern in the wake of widespread flooding in the region. Initial trips into the surrounding villages were quite hopeful. A dike that was built during dry season saved an entire village from devastation. People who were moved to higher ground after the floods in 2015 were not in danger this time. People seem to be working hard to salvage whatever they can where homes and fields have been damaged. The biggest loss is in the fields where entire crops were destroyed.
Our IMC missionaries have written their bi-annual personal update reports and IMC project reports. Please take a look and be blessed by what God is doing both through them, and because of your prayers and support!
Sue Silva (IMC missionary) has been able to briefly speak with the leadership twice now. The death toll has climbed to over 1000. The reports are graphic and horrid. There are several areas in Freetown that were hit very hard, but the Regent area is the worst. Iris people and pastors are all okay, and have gone to the area to help where they can.
On August 14, 2017 heavy rains caused serious flooding and mudslides resulting in the deaths of over 200 people and countless have been left homeless. Andrew & Angela Sesay, Iris leaders in Freetown, are safe and heading to the devastated area to bring hope and relief. They have asked for prayer for the families who have been affected - many have lost everything including loved ones - and prayer for restoration. Rebuilding homes will take time and resources, but the restoration of hearts dealing with trauma is something only God can do.
