UMCOR Responds to Earthquakes in Southern Turkey and Northwest Syria

UMCOR Responds to Earthquakes in Southern Turkey and Northwest Syria

UMCOR


Donations to support this international disaster relief and any others that might occur can be made through Berwyn United Methodist Church to UMCOR Advance # 982450. 100% of all gifts gifts to an Advance are used for that project because the overhead costs of UMCOR are supported through regular gifts and the designated UMCOR Sunday offering.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey at 4:17 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, the most powerful earthquake recorded since 1939. In the hours that followed, at least 78 aftershocks were reported, followed by a second earthquake of 7.5 magnitude. More than 5,000 people were killed, with deaths expected to rise.

The earthquake also heavily impacted northwest Syria, where 4.1 million people depend on humanitarian assistance. The majority are women and children. At this time, Syrian communities are simultaneously facing an ongoing cholera outbreak and extreme winter weather events, including heavy rain and snow. The humanitarian response is overstretched due to the devastation and cold weather.

UMCOR has released an initial solidarity grant to a longstanding humanitarian partner, International Blue Crescent (IBC), which has offices in Turkey. The grant will provide tents, heaters, blankets, warm clothes, ready to eat meals and basic first aid kits.



Other Things You May Be Interested In:

Special Session Of Charge Conference - March 16th

Published: February 16, 2025

Sunday, March 16th at 11:15 AM (Following Worship) Berwyn United Methodist Church will hold a special session of Charge Conference on Sunday, March 16th at 11:15 AM, immediately following worship. The purpose of this session is to discuss and decide on the church’s mortgage and funding options for essential building improvements related to our transition to a full-day childcare program. Key Considerations: Our current mortgage rate has increased from 4.14% to 6.73%. Option 1: Refinance the entire mortgage with the United Methodist Loan Board at its current rate of 5.25%, while adding a modest amount to fund necessary building improvements, including: Air conditioning (most pressing need) Bathroom additions (child-sized toilets) Furnishings for childcare spaces Safety and security measures to ensure church ministry can continue while childcare is in session. We have requested three estimates for air conditioning and will explore costs for other improvements. Option 2: Keep the loan as it is and borrow against the $100,000 invested with the Loan Fund, as our endowment is invested with the Mid-Atlantic Foundation and this is a viable alternative. This decision is crucial for the future of our church and the successful launch of Berwyn Early Learning Academy. All members are strongly encouraged to attend, ask questions, and participate in this important conversation. For questions or more information, please contact Pastor Kevin or a member of the Leadership Team.

The Urgency Of Living In God's Kingdom

Published: March 18, 2025

Our tendency to delay important spiritual and personal growth is challenged by Jesus' teachings on urgency and repentance. Through the stories of unexpected tragedy, the parable of the fig tree, and the rich fool, Jesus reminds us that we do not have unlimited time to embrace God's kingdom. Rather than waiting for the "perfect moment," we are called to live with intention today—deepening our faith, mending relationships, and serving others. The kingdom of God is not just a future promise but a present reality, and choosing to engage with it now leads to a life of purpose, fulfillment, and abundant spiritual fruit.
Top