Continuing prayers for all in Bohol and Cebu

Before noon yesterday, October 16, a day after the 7.1 magnitude earthquake, 107 were reported dead, with 97 of these in Bohol. Just as aftershocks continue to rock and stress those in affected areas, sadly, more death and damage will surely be reported in the coming days.

Our condolences and prayers to those who lost loved ones to the killer quake, our prayers too for everyone's safety, protection, peace, and calm in their hearts amidst this present continuing challenge posed by nature. We also grieve the destruction of Bohol's historic churches, home and refuge to many across generations.

Evangeline Kho, who is now abroad, shared the following prayer to all those back home affected by this recent earthquake.

The LORD says," I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue them and honor them." (Psalm 91:14-15)

You may also wish to look up Psalm 62:1-2 with its timely reminder to put complete confidence in God's protection: "I will wait patiently for God to save me; I depend on him alone. He alone protects and saves me; he is my defender, and I shall never be defeated."

Psalm 62:5-8 also provides this comforting prayer: " I depend on God alone; I put my hope in him. He alone protects and saves me; he is my defender, and I shall never be defeated. My salvation and honor depend on God; he is my strong protector; he is my shelter. Trust in God at all times, my people. Tell him all your troubles, for he is our refuge."

Our son Karlo shared these important guidelines about what to do during earthquakes prepared by the New Zealand government for all. You may wish to check out these guidelines as well at http://earthquake-report.com/2011/05/13/christchurch-aftershocks-know-what-to-do-before-during-and-after/ or  please also refer to http://www.civildefence.govt.nz.

The guidelines want everyone to "be earthquake prepared, to know what to do before, during and after earthquakes." Everyone is asked to read these measures again and again as knowing these can save lives, your own and others. These are "some simple steps to reduce the danger to yourself, your family, and property when earthquakes occur:

Before an earthquake: a) Identify safe places very close to you at home, school or workplace, such as under a sturdy table, or next to an interior wall, b) Develop a Household Emergency Plan and have emergency survival items so that you can cope on your own for at least three days, c) Protect property - secure objects and your homes and keep insurance up to date.

During an earthquake: a) Move no more than a few steps to a safe place, drop, cover, and hold on; b) Do not attempt to run outside ; c) If outside, move no more than a few steps to a safe place, drop, cover, and hold. Stay away as far as possible from building wall (falling objects are one of the major reasons people get killed or severely injured); d) If in a lift ( or inside the elevator), stop at the nearest floor and get out; e) If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road. Stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops; and, f) Walk to an outside safe place when the shaking has stopped. Stay there.

After an earthquake: a) Expect aftershocks and help those around you if you can; b) Report injuries or fires to the emergency services; c) Put out small fires. Evacuate the building if the fires cannot be controlled; d) Listen to the radio for advice and information; e) If your property is damaged, take notes or photos for the loss adjustor ( or for necessary repairs later); and f) Do not go sightseeing and stay out of damaged buildings.

You may also wish to check out this Japanese earthquake survival manual at http://www.seikatubunka.metro.tokyo.jp/index3files/survivalmanual.pdf shared by Boholana Delia Balite Fernandez now based in the States.            

Please continue to stay safe everyone. Instead of fear, faith.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."( Isaiah 41:10)

***

Email: [email protected]