Venezuela is in crisis. But the nation’s unrest hasn’t deterred Foursquare Disaster Relief (FDR) from being part of the solution through the work of local pastors there and in nearby Colombia.
In Venezuela, radical inflation, political unrest, food shortages and violence have driven nearly 2 million Venezuelans to seek asylum in other places, making Venezuelans among the largest number of asylum seekers today. Corruption and abuse of government power with no checks and balances have created a nation of people experiencing unprecedented suffering.
With prices rising 13,000 percent this year, the number of people facing malnourishment will be exponentially higher. Schools and churches are closing, and thousands of people are fleeing daily. This crisis is no respecter of age or class; no one has been spared. At present, there is no foreseeable end in sight.
Foursquare people in Venezuela are no exception. “With the entire country suffering, Foursquare is equally suffering: pastors, members and communities,” says Chad Isenhart, FDR’s international response director. “Our pastors are doing what they can to help, but they are facing the same losses and challenges as those to whom they are ministering.”
Foursquare Missions International‘s Area Missionary Paul Otremba also has partnered with FDR to get funds to pastors’ work in Colombia to assist refugees at the border. This assistance includes food, clothes and sanctuary, distributed by those ready to serve.
Prayer is desperately needed:
- Pray for the thousands who are fleeing every day seeking asylum. Pray for peace, provision and protection over those who are unable to leave.
- Pray for access to high security places so aid can reach those in need.
- Pray for pastors and leaders who are ministering to others in the midst of their own suffering.
The Venezuelan crisis is big, but our God is bigger. You can help. When what we have intersects with the world’s greatest needs, God’s purposes and provision can be seen. Your giving meets tangible needs and helps make Him known. Your tax-deductible donation to FDR can be given online at 4sq.ca/donatefdr. Thank you for your prayers and generosity!
