Update in Jos

Because of the violent events in Jos, which occurred because of political and religious tensions, I have been helping with some of the relief efforts. Many relief and development agencies are responding to the many needs in the area and CRWRC is joining in providing assistance.Today I joined a group that took food supplies to a displaced persons camp near the outskirts of Jos. Along with dropping off the food we were able to spend some time with the people staying in the camp. Most of the people are in this camp with their families because their homes have been destroyed. I mainly spent time with a very large group of kids! These children have been through a lot the last bunch of days and I was glad to be a little bit of a distraction for them. First, we all played a very large unorganized game of soccer on a very dusty, sandy field. After that, I spent some time asking all of them their name, hearing some of their stories, taking pictures and just being with them. They love seeing the pictures of themselves. Whenever I would turn the camera so they could see the picture that I just took, a huge smile would come across their face and they would laugh and laugh…it was great! Really I think they liked doing something different and I was very glad to sit with them, give them a hug and help them smile and laugh!!

Dear Friends,
The city of Jos, Nigeria has experienced unrest following a local election held Thursday, November 27. As the election results became known, localized groups took to the streets to cause trouble and/or protect their families and homes. The result has been the destruction of many churches, mosques, homes and businesses. The fighting has been localized to specific areas of Jos; but, much damage has been done.

We as a CRC mission community have not been harmed and feel safe.

• Please pray for peace and calm in Jos.
• Please pray for the safety of the many innocent people who now find themselves in harms way.
• Please pray that the Christian church will demonstrate Christ's love to their neighbours – both Christian and Muslim – as people try to make sense of the horror that has occurred over the past few days.

Thank you for your prayers!