Japan

"But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?" 1st John 3:17

By now we've all seen the heart-breaking images of the devastation caused by the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

The Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America, which has a presbytery in Japan, has set up a Japan Relief Fund to assist the victims of this tragedy.

You may know that I attended a couple of RPCNA congregations in the past, one as a teenager, and another more recently, just before moving here to Texas.  I do have a few points of disagreement with the RPCNA church, but have fond memories of them just the same: the congregations I attended were warm and friendly, and taught basic Reformed doctrine; and I thought they did an especially good job of reaching and teaching those with little to no church background at all.  (I'll never forget their membership class--quite an interesting experience!)  Also, they do sing the Psalms!  ...though of course they use the "wrong" Psalter, in my humble opinion. :)

Anyway, of the various groups doing relief efforts in Japan, the RPCNA is the one that I have decided to support, because as far as I can tell they are the most like-minded, and have the resources and local connections to bring effective relief.

Donated funds go directly to the RP Japan presbytery, which has set up a relief committee, headed by a minister from Sendai (hardest hit by the tsunami). 

In case any of my readers were looking for a way to help, here is more information:
An RPCNA pastor's blog post about the Japan Relief Fund
For recent updates-- the RP's Japan Relief Fund Facebook page
To donate online--visit the RP Global Missions website
To donate via "snail mail"--write "Japan Relief Fund" on the memo line of your check or money order, and send it to:

RP Global Missions
3004 5th Ave.
Beaver Falls, PA 15010-3671