Update: Relief distributed to 300 families affected by Nepal flash floods

In the beginning of this month, we reported the situation of churches and believers  right after the flood happened. Last week, Open Doors local partners distributed relief aid to 300 families affected by the flash floods in Nepal. The below is a Q and A with Raju*, our local partner who joined the distribution efforts.

1. What is the situation in the flooded areas now? How are the families doing?

Raju: The situation in the flood-affected areas is extremely difficult. Many families, including children and elderly people, are staying in temporary holding centers and tents. They are living there while grieving the loss of their loved ones. Many seem quiet, lost, and overwhelmed by grief. The pain they carry is visible in their faces and eyes.

People staying in different holding centers and tents receive meals from various relief centers. Many charities and government agencies have provided food, shelter, and temporary accommodation for the affected families. However, many people have lost family members, homes, property, and livelihoods, and they continue to reside in these temporary shelters.

I have seen some remain strong in their faith, while others continue to wrestle with the pain and grief they are carrying. For some, the future appears uncertain and hopeless.

2. How is God speaking to them in this situation?

Raju: According to the people I met and interviewed, the flood came unexpectedly and felt like something falling from the sky. Many searched desperately for their loved ones, only to learn that they were no longer alive. Others lost their homes, property, spouses, or children. They were heartbroken and devastated.

Many people were still in shock and unable to process what was happening. Their days and nights were spent crying and remembering those they had lost. It was painful to witness such suffering. During those first days, many were simply overwhelmed by grief and could not even begin to ask questions or understand why this had happened.

Preeti*, who lost family, shares:“After some days, although it was difficult to see everything around me, prayer became my only source of strength. I lost my husband and my home. It was extremely painful because I have two children. Many nights I could not sleep. It has been the most painful journey of my life.

“However, through prayer and reading God's Word, I found the strength to keep going. I have to stay strong for my son and daughter. I need to care for their education and guide them spiritually despite all the losses we have suffered.”

“I was encouraged by the story of Job, who lost everything but remained faithful and was later blessed by God. During all these struggles, his story gave me hope and encouraged me to keep trusting the Lord.”

3. How was the relief received?

Raju: The relief support was very well received and greatly appreciated. Many organizations had already distributed food items, but our support focused on items that were urgently needed, including blankets, electric rice cookers, clothes, towels, innerwear, and some food supplies.

The blankets were especially important as winter is approaching. The electric rice cookers were also highly appreciated because Nepal is currently facing gas shortages, making electric cooking a practical solution for many families.

One of the survivors, Pravin*, says: “The rice cookers and blankets are among the most useful items we have received. Because of the gas shortage in Nepal, the electric rice cooker helps us prepare meals more easily. Many organizations have already distributed food, but these items met some of our most urgent needs. We are very thankful for the support.”

*Names changed for security reasons

please pray

• Pray that God will heal the hearts of those who are grieving and carrying deep emotional pain.
• Pray for families who have lost homes and livelihoods, and for children who have lost parents and are facing an uncertain future.
• Pray for long-term support and sustainable solutions so that affected families can rebuild their lives.

Weekly prayer emails

Would you like to receive more stories like this to prompt you to pray for your persecuted family? Sign up for weekly and/or monthly emails, which also feature other updates and resources to help you stay engaged with the persecuted church in Nepal and throughout the world.