Reports say that at least 158,000 people are known to have died as a result of the tsunamis caused by the undersea Indian Ocean earthquake last December 26, 2004 and the count is still taking place. The plight of the many affected people and countries prompted a widespread humanitarian response. Among these were ACM missionary graduates serving in their respective mission fields that were affected.

Rey Arcadio* who serves in SouthThailand, as seen in the pictures, reports to us that in the area where he serves 6 died from those who live near the coastal area and two of these were relatives of his student. At January 5, 2005, they coordinated with the Mayor of their town to help them distribute relief goods to an island that due to its distance, though affected, does not receive enough help. So the Mayor arranged for a big boat to carry them to the island so they can distribute relief goods to many families affected by the Tsunami. He praises God with us despite the fact that the end of the year has brought such a calamity this was actually used by God to share Christ’s love to those who were affected.

Asian Center for Missions would like to extend their condolences to the families that have lost many of their love ones affected by the tsunamis caused by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake. Along with many organizations, we encourage everyone to give to those who are aiding to the restoration of the affected countries.

Some factual info. on undersea 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake :

Did you know that the undersea 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake was so strong that the earth is now tilted in its axis and has quicken its rotation? According to US scientists, the earth now spins three microseconds faster and has tilted about 2.5cm on its axis.

And did you know that the earthquake was at a magnitude of 9.0 making it the fourth largest since 1900? It originated in the Indian Ocean off the western coast of northern Sumatra, Indonesia causing tsunamis that devastated the shores of Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, and other countries with waves of up to 50 feet high, even reaching Somalia on the east coast of Africa, 4,500 km west of the epicenter.

*names are changed