Dear Friends, You have no doubt seen in the media that “super” typhoon Bopha struck the Philippine Islands just this week. The city of Cagayan de Oro was one of the places hardest hit by the 150+ mph winds that ripped off roofs, leveled the bamboo houses of the poor, and caused devastating floods. The media has reported that more than 300 people have lost their lives, with an equal amount still missing. Earlier this year I was in Cagayan de Oro to help victims of a much smaller typhoon that struck last winter (see On Higher Ground in the September magazine). There I met pastor Alex Montanano, a humble servant of God, as well as many other brothers and sisters in Christ. I’ve been in close contact with pastor Alex throughout this time of distress. During the height of the storm he sent me the following words:
We’ve already sent a small gift to pastor Alex to help begin to serve survivors, particularly those among our spiritual family, but I’d like to send more next week, as the needs will be great. If you’d like to join us in helping our brothers and sisters in Cagayan de Oro, you can easily donate by credit card to our Disaster Relief Fund by clicking here.
Thank you for your compassion. Jeff Trotter |