GFA spreads love of God by ministering to the needs of tsunami victims

New Delhi – U.S.–based evangelical organization Gospel for Asia (GFA) is spreading the love of God by ministering to the needs of tsunami victims.

One year ago, on December 26, 2004, tidal waves triggered by an earthquake off the coast of Indonesia, swept across the southern coastlines of India destroying everything in its path. Besides thousands of villagers who were left homeless in a matter of moment, the community affected the most were the fishermen who lost their boats and nets in the sea.

However, GFA has intensified its rehabilitation efforts and are helping the tsunami survivors rebuild their villages and their lives.

According to Dr. KP Yohannan, GFA founder–president, the tsunami has transformed the heart of the villagers in an amazing way. "Our people previously went there with the Gospel; they were thrown out of those places. But, after the tsunami as our people went back, the very people who opposed our brothers and beat them up, are the very people who received them and became believers and they are part of the church."

"The Gospel for Asia missionaries have seen way over 150 or nearly 200 places (where) people are gathering for worship as a result of ministering among these tsunami victims," Mission News Network quoted the GFA leader as saying.

Besides providing medical assistance, GFA is also helping the survivors rebuild their homes and replace the old broken fishing boats and nets with new ones. Most importantly, the survivors are being taught how to start new businesses all over again and sustain themselves.

But, Dr. Yohannan is concerned. "The tsunami will be with us for at least three, four or five years. So, the rebuilding process of houses and fishing boats and counseling, building churches continues to be a burden and we need help," he admitted.

GFA is currently building 50 houses for tsunami victims. They are also taking care of children in both India and Sri Lanka. If you would like to help GFA reach even more people with the Gospel through physical assistance, click here http://www.gfa.org.