Pray for the people of Chile A devastating magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck Chile Saturday, February 27, 2010, shattering buildings and bridges and causing the issuance of tsunami warnings for much of Pacific rim. Damage was particularly heavy in Concepción. That city, Chile’s second-largest metropolitan area, is located only 70 miles from the earthquake's epicenter. Reports as of Monday morning, March 1, 2010, list the death toll at more than 700 people, with a potential of more deaths as tsunamis hit coastal areas. Approximately 1.5 million homes have been destroyed. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is working with our ecumenical partner, Church World Service (CWS), in Chile to provide basic humanitarian assistance and to help local partners in assessing the needs. $25,000 from One Great Hour of Sharing funds were immediately disbursed to help with the initial response. PDA will also coordinate with PC(USA) World Mission and their work with CLAI (Latin American Council of Churches) and with ACT Alliance member, Lutheran World Federation. This latest devastation intensifies our journey through the season of Lent, remembering the suffering and death of Jesus. Join in prayer for those in Chile who are affected most directly by the earthquake as well as all who await word from family and friends. Pray for our partner church — the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Chile — and those who are already engaged in providing relief. You can collect donations through a special offering and mail a check to the Presbytery of St. Augustine with account #DR000185 (Account number for Haiti Relief is #DR000064).  You may also donate online or by calling (800) 872-3283.