Earthquake 2001 - The Coast

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Rock falls from the earthquake blocked the Panamerican Highway in numerous places. The scene on entering Camaná was incredible! A tsunami tidal wave measuring around 7 metres swept more than a kilometer inland destroying large tracts of land and drowning around 100 people. The devastation along the seafront area was unbelieveable.
       
Concrete houses became twisted collapsed remains. Those built of bamboo or matting were totally destroyed. Wherever you looked there was devastation upon devastation. A few people were gathering what materials could be salvaged.
       
What had been a discotheque, now a mere ruin. The force of the sea had washed the sand from the foundations. A big hotel, shaken to its foundations. SIM’s team in Arequipa met to plan the immediate relief effort and projects were drawn up and submitted.
       
We were thankful that we were not the only organization joining the relief effort. The sea washed over the soon to be harvested crops. The irrigation and drainage system was badly damaged. Sand had filled the channels.
       
The pump was damaged beyond repair. Mud brick houses were badly hit. The local church took the opportunity to bring hope in the immediate aftermath of the crisis. Superstition abounded. This shrine had been set up at a temporary camp.
       
Steve worked alongside Pastor Adam Llamoca. He faithfully pastors a number of congregations along the coast. Working mainly alongside the Assemblies of God Church, 8 emergency soup kitchens were set up. Gas stoves and large pots were purchased.
       
SIM's emergency relief project provided the food and local volunteers prepared and served it. Many families were hard hit as the earthquake struck half an hour before they were due to be paid. Many people were grateful for the help they received. Through this crisis the church was able to show Christ’s love in action and to share the Gospel.
       
This girl is wearing a rosary. SIM missionaries provided encouragement. Here Hannelore Zimmermann is talking to a volunteer. It is hard work cooking for 200 people! Volunteers prepared and served one good main meal daily to around 1000 people at a cost of about $0.40 or 25 pence per head.
       
Over the months, the frequency of the meals was reduced so that by December the kitchens were closed down completely. By then the fields covered with salt water had been washed and crops replanted. This is San Isidro, a small village outside Camaná. Before the earthquake there were only three believers here. One day when we visited they asked Pastor Adam when they could build their church. He replied that in time it would be possible. Two weeks later we arrived to find they had started!
       
All the work was done by the local believers with no input whatsoever from the mission! Two weeks after that we attended the dedication of the new building! Many people made commitments to Christ in the aftermath of the earthquake. Contact has been maintained with the church on the coast through periodic visits. Much blessing has come out of adversity and we praise God for the privilege of being part of it.
       
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