“We are so grateful for those who are praying for us. Will you continue?” says Keiko Yoshizaki, FEBC-Japan field director. “Please pray that God continues to grant me the right words to share with my people during this scary time. Beyond the devastation from the earthquake and tsunami, we are really concerned about atomic power stations.”

Keiko and her staff are recording special programmes to comfort people, with prayer, music and meditation. She writes: “We interview the pastors and lay people volunteers who are visiting Fukushima, Miyagi, Iwate to bring needed things. As of today, the nuclear influence is unfathomable. Huge groups of people are trying to escape from the Fukushima area, seeking a place to stay, with anxiety for future, residence, job, infection...”

Churches as shelter and love

FEBC has always been committed to strengthening churches in the countries where they broadcast. At times of tragedy and disaster, FEBC seeks to reach out to the communities where our broadcasts are aired.

“Many of you have also asked how you might tangibly help us,” says Keiko. “Right now our immediate request is support for our local churches. Countless churches have been damaged and several more are in total ruins—washed away by the great waves. The total damage is hard to imagine as many pastors are desperate for help.”

“We praise God that local churches are functioning as a place for people to escape. Churches have got together and organized Tohoku Help Network and are helping people visiting door to door. Each town has a civilian leader and volunteer social worker to help. Together with their connection, churches can help them physically and spiritually. They do not push Christianity, but to show love of God.”

From the listeners

• “A friend of mine reminded me about FEBC broadcasts. I listen to your programme through the internet. What a blessing.”
• “I don't know what will happen to me next after this terrible disaster! I just cannot explain in words. Why am I survived? Why God has given me life? I need to think about this.”
• “All convenience stores, gasoline stations are closed and electricity finally is on. No heating oil (kerosene), yet temperature is under zero. Oh, it's so cold! With no TV, radio is the only way to get information and comfort!”
• “A friend of mine, a member of First Baptist Fukushima Church, who lives close to nuclear power plant, was suddenly taken away by bus with all other villagers to some shelter. All the church members moved to be accepted by other churches far from the disaster spot.”

Praying for those in Japan

• Pray that God will use FEBC's broadcasts to comfort and encourage many during this time of suffering. Many forms of media will be inaccessible, and many will turn to radio!
• Pray for special programming that FEBC-Japan staff will prepare to help and encourage those who are afflicted.

Read related article: Urgent prayer needed for Japan

If you want to donate to the FEBC-Japan disaster response, please use the FEBC website to Donate today.