How Christian Volunteers Can Respond to Disasters: Lessons from the 2011 Japan Tsunami

After the massive tsunami of 2011 hit the Pacific coast of Japan, the island faced its greatest crisis since the end of World War II. This is the story of how the tiny Christian minority in Japan were, in the words of World Evangelical Alliance Global Ambassador Brian Stiller, "punching above their weight", mobilizing thousands of volunteers and millions of dollars of relief to scores of devastated communities. Along the way there are lessons learned that Christians can use to respond to disasters throughout the world to bring help and hope to those who are hurting with the compassion of Jesus Christ. - Prepare your home and church before a disaster strikes, - Lead prayer both during a crisis and throughout the response with wisdom and information, - Respond safely and effectively during the first 48 hours and as the response progresses through relief and recovery stages, - Accurately assess needs, coordinate large responses, manage volunteers and avoid the "disaster after the disaster", - Care for the emotional and spiritual needs of disaster survivors, children, volunteers and caregivers, and - Answer theological questions concerning Christian disaster response. First-hand testimonies from faithful pastors and volunteers caring for congregations and communities in the face of nuclear meltdown, massive tsunami waves and the ongoing needs of those still living in temporary housing give voice to the ongoing struggle of those whose lives were changed and are still recovering from disaster.

Author: Jonathan Edward Wilson

Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform

Publication Date: Apr 25, 2014

Number of Pages: 148 pages

Binding: Paperback or Softback

ISBN-10: 1499226411

ISBN-13: 9781499226416