As the relief work gets underway to help all those stricken areas surrounding the Bay of Bengal and beyond that have suffered as a result of the severe earthquake off the Nicobar Islands and the subsequent tsunami (tidal wave), many have asked how the Oxford Mission is coping. Bangladesh is often the worst hit when floods ravage the region, but this time, despite the low flat land, the country has been relatively lightly affected.
Floods: the children and Sisters on our road
News from Mother Susila has indicated that although the rivers have been swollen with the effects of the tidal water, relatively little damage has been suffered, and none to the Mission itself either at Barisal or Jobarpar.
In India, the situation is also calm at Behala, being far enough inland. Further south the situation is of course much more serious.
Many supporters have asked whether additional support, financial or other, is required at the Mission. The answer to that is that in the initial phase there is more need to direct funds to the relief agencies, such as the International Red Cross or via their national organisations, and the other bodies being set up to channel such funds to where the need is greatest. It is too soon to know whether there will be additional pressures on the Oxford Mission that will require funding support for the longer term. In this respect we will keep you abreast of the situation.
Mother Susila has indicated that she has a new girl seriously considering joining the Christa Sevika Sangha. We pray for her and the other novices and sisters that they may all grow in faith and take up the challenges before them
We also take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy New Year - May God be with you all!