October 11, 2005

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. – Lisa Rothenberger, American Baptist Churches USA World Relief officer, reported today that her office already has begun to support relief efforts in the wake of Saturday's devastating earthquake in Pakistan.

"It has been amazing to see how quickly our friends at Hungarian Baptist Aid have been able to mobilize their rescue team," said Rothenberger. "They are the lead team in the global response of the Baptist World Alliance. Our partnership with Hungarian Baptists and our membership in the Baptist World Alliance have made it possible for American Baptists to contribute to the disaster relief effort within hours of getting the news about this disaster."

Rothenberger added that she and the Rev. Ben Chan, International Ministries' area director for the affected region, also are working closely with Church World Service, whose Pakistan/Afghanistan office began to get relief supplies to the hardest-hit areas the day after the massive earthquake struck.

Rothenberger has made initial grants of $15,000 to the relief work, using One Great Hour of Sharing funds. She and Chan will be following up with Baptist World Aid, Church World Service and other ministry partners as the full dimensions of the relief effort become clearer.

American Baptists wishing to support the Pakistan/Kashmir earthquake relief effort can go through their church's monthly mission support channel, designating contributions "OGHS-Pakistan Earthquake." For online contributions go to the "Give Now" option available on either http://www.abcusamissions.org/ or http://www.abc-usa.org/.

American Baptist News Service