Church of God Still Standing in Puerto Rico
Progress for recovery has been slow for Puerto Rico following the aftermath four months ago of Hurricane Maria. A commonwealth that was literally devastated from shore-to-shore has met with multiple obstacles in trying to regain her former self.
As with any disaster that comes to the World Missions family, General Director Dr. David Griffis and Assistant Director M. Thomas Propes immediately responded with funds to help the Church of God constituency find footing in an overwhelming situation.
José Pantoja, director of Evangelism and Missions in Puerto Rico, has this to say:
“The electricity has been restored to my house and to two neighbors this week. Beyond us dominates a darkness that reveals how fortunate my neighbors and I are because we are blessed to live in front of a main road. The electricity was restored after 133 days of experiencing long hours to get fuel, water, or basic food. Currently 38 percent of the population lacks electricity, have communications problems, and poor nutrition.
“The Church of God in Puerto Rico responded valiantly since the onset of this tragedy. With 50 churches suffering total loss or severe damage, the leadership led by the Administrative Bishop Ricardo Lopez, built a collection center for all Puerto Rico. Today, 133 days after Hurricane Maria, more than 20 containers containing food, water, medicine, and essential items have been received and distributed. More than 100 power plants, 100 mattresses, and floor tiles were also distributed. The collection center served more than 20 evangelical denominations and thousands of people through the Churches of God in various communities. More than 400 deliveries were made to churches who in turn distributed goods to entire communities.
“Although the devastating blow of Hurricane Maria made us bend our knees, we took advantage of the opportunity to cry out to God who strengthened our bodies to stand and overcome!”
To assist with further disaster relief for Puerto Rico through Church of God World Missions, please refer to Project #765-0036-053.
(Source: Church of God World Missions)
