First Sabbath Offering for World Disaster and Welfare

“[The Lord] executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry” (Psalm 146:7).

The Lord Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). The poor are all around us, the distressed, the afflicted, the sorrowing, and those who are ready to perish. There is a great need for the exercise of mercy today as there ever was. God has made us His stewards, and He is not to be charged with the sufferings, the misery, the nakedness, and the want of humanity. The Lord has made ample provision for all of us. He has given us large supplies with which to alleviate the want of these sufferers and underprivileged ones.

Every day we hear of earthquakes, war, floods, volcanoes, and other disasters and troubles all over the world resulting in destruction, great damage to properties, and loss of life. As soon as we hear about a calamity, we immediately swing into action to respond to the needs of the people. The way we respond depends deeply on the nature of the disaster, the country, the economic and geo-political situation at hand. We immediately begin to assess the situation to determine the most appropriate actions.

In addition to this, in time of peace the Welfare Department provides assistance such as funding through proposals, technical assistance, training, mentorship, and project identification and implementation. Where we have expertise, we want to assist by providing oversight and guidance as needed. Our goal is to empower the local church to meet the needs of their community; whether in the form of food, clothing, blankets, shelter, or emotional support and counseling.

Sharing God’s love around the world is like an airplane which needs fuel to propel it. Your liberal offerings are the fuel that propels almost every aspect of helping these destitute. Without your involvement and this fuel, our best efforts are sure to be a disaster as well. It is hard for everyone to go to the site of calamities, but your means can go far. We appeal to you that your heart may be moved to partake in this noble task. Please give liberally for this cause.

Your brethren from the Welfare Department