Monday, April 2, an earthquake registering 8.1 went off only two hundred miles from the Solomon Islands. It caused a tidal wave 10-20 feet high that slammed into many costal areas. It has resulted in the tragic loss of life of twenty and destroying many houses. Tsunami warnings were issued for the region but were cancelled after the danger passed.Jesus Film Team (JFT) director, Jimmy, called missionary, George Miller (Missionary to the Solomon Islands), from Gizo in Western Province to advise that the team were waiting on the wharf for their ship to return to Honiara, when a huge tidal wave swept over the wharf, market, and town buildings. Most of the JF equipment is in a water-tight sealed container, but was covered with water, including a generator. The team was able to rescue most of the equipment, though it meant diving in the sea to search for their belongings, and were unable to recover a projection table, a bag of electric cables and light fixtures.

Jimmy has since advised that the ship has arrived in Gizo, and the team are en-route to the capital of Honiara. They are rejoicing in God’s protection and confirm that none of the JFT team or any of our churches reports any fatalities. Contact is not possible with our village churches of Iriiri Pasapasa and Vilorae. JFT member, Pastor Revelation, will assess the situation on his return to the villages.

Grace, a Bible College student, rang from Gizo. She just arrived at the wharf when the tidal wave hit and she lost all her belongings. She was preparing to travel to Honiara for Bible College. She has decided to proceed with her plans to travel to Honiara, even after searching the shore and in spite of her losses, with just the clothes on her back. Her father had cut timber for his building and now it all washed away. They are still feeling the tremors at this time.

The earthquake was felt in Honiara, the capital city, where they will begin their mini-Assembly this evening. Offerings will be received each evening, in response to the needs, such as food and water shortages.

The Millers ask for wisdom in being prepared to respond in this situation. Continue to pray for their and others’ safety, as well as in other areas of the region, and how we might respond compassionately, in yet another natural disaster to hit our Region.

On behalf of our Solomon Island family & friends, thanks for your interest and support.

- written by David Harris, Asia Pacific NCM Coordinator