"Northern Japan experienced an 8.9 earthquake in their northern waters on March 11, one of the largest in 100 years.  It has caused a large tsunami and much damage.  We are uncertain how many Japanese this affects within our St. Matthew community. 

In response to the massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan, St. Matthew is offering the following:

Messages:

If you are Japanese searching for a friend, please go to:  JAPANESE LANGUAGE  or  ENGLISH LANGUAGE (Dial 01181 17)

Stories:

• News from the Lutheran Church website Japan Earthquake Relief
• Blanke: Prayers needed for Japan's 'new reality'
• Volunteers needed later, for 'long-haul' response in Japan
• Michigan congregation reaches out to Japanese friends
• Japan disaster FAQs provide answers
• LCMS member in Fukushima gives KFUO interview
• 'We still have hope,' says Japanese pastor

To read any of these stories, click on headlines above or visit Reporter Online at http://www.lcms.org/reporter.

Resource for Parents:

Focus on the Family has given us permission to post "Parenting in the Midst of Tragedy" as a resource for parents providing ways to discuss the most recent events with children.

Prayer Requests: 

Prayers can be sent through our prayer network by clicking here

Donations: 

If you would like to make a donation to help in relief efforts: 

• Our Lutheran Church World Relief and Human Care Response:
• Japan Business Society of Detroit (JBSD) is matching dollar for dollar up to $40,000 funds that will go directly to the Japanese Red Cross.
• The American Red Cross

これらのことを話したのは、あなたがたわたしによって平和を得るためである。あなたがたには世で苦難がある。しかし、勇気を出しなさい。わたしは既に世に勝っている。　新約聖書：ヨハネによる福音書１６章３３節

[Jesus said] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33