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Friday, March 05, 2010

Christian Radio Network in Chile Updating Listeners After Devastating Quake

Source: HCJB Global (written by Ralph Kurtenbach)

The people of Chile are putting their lives back together after an 8.8-strength earthquake struck near Concepción early Saturday, Feb. 27.

From the capital city of Santiago, Radio Armonía program host María Soledad is helping many Chileans to do so as the HCJB Global radio partner broadcasts via 35 affiliates across Chile.

Throughout the week María Soledad kept listeners up-to-date, encouraging them from the Scriptures. “In some sectors electricity is being restored—in cities like Concepción, Talcahuano, San Pedro de la Paz. Today I was asked about [the sector of] Michaigue,” she said on a program monitored in Ecuador.

A caller named Marina, her faith intact but emotions edgy, was overcome with emotion upon reaching Soledad. “How long have you been listening?” the program host asked as the two friends chatted on-air. “Just since this morning, we’ve been here without electricity, listening to the radio.”

Another caller, Pastor Alejandro Cabezas, experienced a few difficulties with highway travel to Concepción, but said the highway is generally clear and the weather is good. Moved by the enormity of the situation, his voice broke as he described the difficulties of people. “Some people are quite desperate,” he said.

Chileans continue experiencing dozens of aftershocks each day, keeping many in a state of uncertainty. Even as the tremors continue rattling people’s emotions, Radio Armonía is promoting an aid campaign launched by the Salvation Army. The “Embracing Chile” campaign solicits cash, nonperishable foods, milk and disposable diapers from the radio network’s listeners.

Since 1931, HCJB Global’s passion has been to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Using mass media, healthcare and education, and working with partners around the world, HCJB Global has ministries in more than 100 countries. Together with local partners, the ministry airs the gospel in more than 120 languages and dialects. Thousands of listeners and healthcare patients are meeting Jesus. Local believers are being trained as missionaries, pastors, broadcasters and healthcare providers.


For more information contact:
Rachel Baker, HCJB Global
1065 Garden of the Gods Rd.
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
719.590.9800, Ext. 2281
rbaker@hcjb.org
www.hcjbglobal.org
(Rachel Baughn/MT)