Thailand/Burma Trip

Posted by Philip on 24 February 2011

VISIT TO REFUGEE CAMPS

On Friday I travel to Thailand at the invitation of our partner ministry, Alpha Relief, to visit refugee camps on the Thai/Burmese border. Alpha Relief are working in these camps, which contain a high proportion of children who have fled the fighting in neighbouring Burma, bringing support, aid and the love of Christ to these victims of conflict. At this time the war is raging just across the river, so our trip will be determined by our guides on the ground, so please pray for discernment and for the safety of all in the camps.

Here is an excerpt from an email received by a worker in one of the camps -

Hi Everyone,

It's with a grievous heart that I share that war has broken out immediately across the river from the camp! It's a war zone! Bombings, mortars, landmines etc. Our kids are fleeing - absolutely traumatised. Some have been taken in by our guest hose friend, some are sleeping under trees as they are too terrified to be in a building. It's a very dangerous situation here. we are jumping in our truck tomorrow morning very early and racing up six hours to find and comfort the children. we don't know what to do. Please pray for safety and wisdom and comfort for the children. Our hearts are breaking. We know God is still in control.

VISIT TO CHILDREN'S HOMES IN BURMA

We are also visiting a couple of our Children's Homes in Burma, both of which Alpha Relief are partnering with us, with the aim of building relationships and seeing the progress of the fish farm project at one home, and the new rented home at the other. Both of these homes in Eastern Burma contain children orphaned by conflict, which is the reason that Alpha Relief are involved. So far they have provided £3000 to get the fish farm started, however we still need a further £1500 for a years supply of fish food. After one year the home will be able to sell a lot of the fish, providing much-needed income, so if you would like to donate towards this work, you can here . We are very thankful for their assistance, but most of all we know that our source and trust is the Lord Jesus Christ, who enables us to do all things for His purposes and glory. 

Please pray that our travel plans work out and that we are able to minister to those who need it most, I will update you fully on my return.