NSW & ACT Baptist Churches - Bush Fire Appeal http://fireappeal.nswactbaptists.org.au/Fire_Appeal/Baptist_Churches_Bush_Fire_Appeal.html Click to read more As fires continue to burn across NSW the challenges facing many in our Association of Churches continues to increase. The Baptist Ministry Centre has been in contact with churches in the fire zones to find out how we, as a movement of churches, can best support them in their ministry over the coming days and months. The Impact So Far The impact so far has been: • 20 Churches within or close to the fire zones.• 14 Families within Baptist churches have lost their homes to fire (10 in Springwood Baptist, 2 in Hawkesbury Valley Baptist, 2 in Glenbrook Baptist ).• Kiah Ridge has been evacuated with camps cancelled until at least Wednesday.• Community aid work by churches in the fire zones are placing strains on church resources.• Thankfully no church property has been lost.Baptist Churches Bush Fire AppealTo address the impact on churches a bush fire appeal has been established to raise funds for the churches in the fire zones to provide invaluable community support and aid. This appeal will provide churches with money for: Emergency Relief• Accommodation• Clothing• Bill Payments• Food• Crisis Counselling and moreMedium to Long Term Support• Counselling• Respite care• General Support ServicesPrayer SupportIt is vital that we continue to pray for the churches affected by the fire and just as importantly the communities. Please pray for: • The fire fighters as they bravely work in the most trying conditions• The weather to turn against the fires• The people who have lost homes and others experiencing trauma• The people and churches ministering into these communities• The continued protection and safety of peopleHow can you help? 1 Go to www.mybaptistchurch.org.au/donations to make a tax deductible donation to the Bush Fire Appeal via Credit Card or a pledge that can be paid by Credit Card, Cheque/Money Order or Direct Debit 2 If you own a holiday property and would like to offer it to families needing respite care in the coming months contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . This will likely be most helpful in about 6 months time. Remember that "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it." 1 Corinthians 12:26 God BlessKen ClendinningDirector Of Ministries