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Kirk issues 'call for help' on Burma
Colin Renwick, convener
of the Kirk's World Mission Council, has called on Scottish
communities to respond to the terrible devastation caused
by Cyclone Nargis which tore through the Irrawady delta
in Burma on 3 May. Renwick commented: "The
more we hear, the worse it gets. It is difficult to
comprehend a disaster on this scale. Surely it is time
for everyone to respond as they are able to the relief
effort."
The Kirk is in partnership with the Presbyterian Church
of Myanmar, and the Independent Presbyterian Church
of Myanmar. This Sunday throughout Scotland prayers
will be said for all the people of Burma, especially
those directly affected by the Cyclone.
Renwick has encouraged people to support the Christian
Aid appeal to raise £2 million to help those affected
by the cyclone. "Christian
Aid are already working with local partners to deliver
help, but point out that an estimated one million people
are reportedly homeless and in dire need of emergency
help. There are thousands of human and animal bodies
still scattered across the affected area. This is adding
to concerns that the lives of survivors are increasingly
at risk of disease. Food shortages will also be a major
problem throughout the country over the coming months
as rice paddies have been inundated with saltwater."
Morag Mylne, convener
of the Church and Society Council, commented: "The
apparent inadequacy of the Burmese Government's response
only reinforces the view that the regime does not govern
in the best interests of its people."
Ends.
Note to Editors:
For further enquiries, please contact Morag Mylne, convener of the Church & Society Council, on 07789 484096(M) or the Rev Colin Renwick, convener of the World Mission Council, on 07796 828626 (M) or 0141 959 1310 (H).
nr/32/05/08
Thursday 8, May 2008
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