April 14, 2011 - Update from Peter Bakelaar, MTW missionary to Japan
Dear Friends,
Up to this point, the Nagoya Team has made eight trips up to the quake-affected areas. These trips brought much needed supplies to the earthquake areas. The work is now shifting toward work teams and volunteers to come alongside those in need and offer further assistance in whatever way we can. Long term efforts will continue helping in clean-up, as well as offering emotional support and caring for the spiritual needs of the people. Recently we traveled to Kamaishi to help a local church there. Kamaishi is one of the towns that was hardest hit by the Tsunami. Our daughter Rita, as well as a nurse, another volunteer and myself traveled by van. We joined with others from our team who were already there helping with volunteers. The nurse and Rita had planned to care for the older women in an evacuation center. Plans changed and they joined us all in shoveling mud and debri to clear the front of the church. They also helped in preparing food for all the workers. It was very moving to listen to residents of Kamaishi speak of their experiences and for us to be a small part of their lives at this time. The response of the Church has really shown the ministry of the Body of Christ as each part works together and responds in love.
We appreciate your prayers and support. It truly is a team effort.
Peter
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