On 25/1/03 12:57 PM, "Terry Clifton" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > Before this is all over (fires) I suspect that there will be many more > homeless families. Can you tell us what the churches and charities and > government are doing to offer shelter and relief? Is a fund being set up > where contributions can be made? Are people praying for relief? Has this > caused anyone to turn to the Lord who ignored Him previously, as our 9/11 > event did? > > Please fill us in. G'day Terry, Thank you for your concern. The Federal Government has offered each family an immediate cash grant of $10,000AUD. Most families are staying with relatives. One family lost 3 houses - parent's, son and nephew and they are all staying at another child's place! At least 4 people have died protecting their homes.
The disaster is too big for individual churches and charities to act piecemeal so the Aust. Capital Territory Government (as distinct from the Federal Government) is coordinating shelter and relief in that area through their Emergency Services Centre. Emergency Centres have also been activated by State Governments for other areas under threat and these are coordinating fire fighting and rescue. There are both professionals and volunteers involved in "Bush Fire Brigades". To donate here, you just go to the nearest Bank and they will organise it. Many people have rallied to give support this way and express solidarity. I don't know how you donate from overseas but will try to find out. The churches and people have been praying for rain and relief because also "out back" it has been the worst drought in 100 years. Australians are typically tough and laconic. The fires pass and the people return. "She'll be right, mate!" is heard as the Sun smiles on the ashes. The skies turn an indescribable blue - unbeckoned, the spirits lift. There is hope for some and an aching despair for others. Isn't there some comment about sand? If you hammer it, it can turn into stone and then further hammering either makes it harder or it crumbles. Thus disaster turns some people towards God and others away. Thanks again Peter -- Peter Eyland Sydney Australia Web page: http://www.phys.unsw.edu.au/~epe ---------- "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man." (Colossians 4:6) http://www.InnGlory.org If you do not want to receive posts from this list, send an email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] and you will be unsubscribed. If you have a friend who wants to join, tell him to send an e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] and he will be subscribed.
