Severe Floods In Malawi

“If one part [of the body] suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ. (1 Corinthians 12:26-27)”

Today, some of our fellow members of God’s church are suffering. Just a few months ago, the country of Malawi was suffering a severe drought, and the government was having difficulty in providing water to people. Last week, Malawi went from one extreme to another. Days of heavy rains resulted in widespread and severe flooding throughout the African nation, destroying homes, crops, and lives. Many congregations and perhaps thousands of members of the Lutheran Church of Central Africa-Malawi, our sister synod live in the devastated areas and have been severely affected by the floods.

We are not yet aware of the full extent of the damage, since many LCCA congregations in remote areas are hard to reach on the best days. With travel and communication abilities limited, a full assessment of the damage to LCCA churches and members’ homes is ongoing.

WELS missionaries in Malawi have been in contact in WELS Christian Aid and Relief to begin a formal request for relief aid. Christian Aid and Relief is making an initial grant to help with immediate needs and will be able to offer more assistance as ongoing needs are determined. Christian Aid and Relief has also reached out to the Central Africa Medical Mission, which operates a mobile health clinic in Malawi, as medical needs are expected to increase in the flooded areas.

This situation is one in which members of one body can show our love to others who are suffering. To help our Christian brothers and sisters in Malawi, you can donate online or send checks to WELS, Re: Christian Aid and Relief, flood disaster relief fund, N16W23377 Stone Ridge Drive, Waukesha, WI 53188-1108.

Read more from Malawi Missionary Mark Panning.

Serving in Christ,

President Mark Schroeder