Dec. 7, 2009 issue
Virginia mission agency joins Italy quake project
Europeans suport a church's vision
By Willard and Eva Eberly Virginia Mennonite MissionsL’AQUILA, Italy — Virginia Mennonite Missions is joining European Mennonites in raising funds for a building project in this earthquake-devastated Italian city.
The earthquake hit in April, destroying or damaging 27 towns. L’Aquila was at the epicenter.
An eerie silence fills the empty streets of L’Aquila, where high-rise apartment buildings stand like crippled sentinels guarding the crushed, twisted remains of a once-vibrant city of 65,000. Although laundry still flutters and plants languish on abandoned balconies, there are no signs of life in many areas.
Those who escaped death are gone, either to live elsewhere or to tendopoli (tent cities) nearby. The government is providing emergency assistance and rebuilding of housing.
Giorgio DeAngelis, an Italian missionary and pastor of a small church in L’Aquila, saw his family’s home and the church building seriously damaged. Yet, God is using them to minister to the quake victims and giving protection and provisions, he said.
He tells of a couple converted to following Jesus since the quake and who praise God for saving their lives.
DeAngelis also has a vision of a new church and community center from which to continue the ministry of hope and healing. Local authorities have received the application for a building lot.
Italian Mennonites, VMM personnel in Italy and other European evangelical leaders are promoting the construction of the church and community center. Swiss Mennonites are committed to making a significant contribution as well.
Donations may be sent to VMM at 901 Parkwood Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
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