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Kirk issues 'call for help' on Burma

Colin Renwick, convener of the Kirk's World Mission Council, has called on Scottish communities to respond to the terrible devastation caused by Cyclone Nargis which tore through the Irrawady delta in Burma on 3 May. Renwick commented: "The more we hear, the worse it gets. It is difficult to comprehend a disaster on this scale. Surely it is time for everyone to respond as they are able to the relief effort."

The Kirk is in partnership with the Presbyterian Church of Myanmar, and the Independent Presbyterian Church of Myanmar. This Sunday throughout Scotland prayers will be said for all the people of Burma, especially those directly affected by the Cyclone.

Renwick has encouraged people to support the Christian Aid appeal to raise £2 million to help those affected by the cyclone. "Christian Aid are already working with local partners to deliver help, but point out that an estimated one million people are reportedly homeless and in dire need of emergency help. There are thousands of human and animal bodies still scattered across the affected area. This is adding to concerns that the lives of survivors are increasingly at risk of disease. Food shortages will also be a major problem throughout the country over the coming months as rice paddies have been inundated with salt water."

Morag Mylne, convener of the Church and Society Council, commented: "The apparent inadequacy of the Burmese Government's response only reinforces the view that the regime does not govern in the best interests of its people."

Full story at the Church of Scotland.