In the wake of Typhoon Sudal, which devastated the western Pacific island of Yap April 9, Church members and missionaries are working together to rebuild their community.
With winds of 150 mph, the typhoon stripped the island of lush tropical trees, plants and vegetation; destroyed homes, businesses, schools, church houses and government buildings; and eliminated water and power sources.
All missionaries and members on Yap — located 435 miles southwest of Guam — are safe following the storm, which sent huge ocean surf over the beaches.
"In short, this beautiful Pacific island was absolutely devastated by this powerful typhoon," said Elder Neal Christensen, who is serving a mission on Yap with his wife, Sister Lois Christensen.
However, Elder Christensen reported that despite the major damage, Church buildings on the island received only minor flood damage and were used as refuges during the disaster.
He said Trinda Tinag, a seminary teacher in the Thol Branch on Yap, prayed for guidance during the storm and felt prompted to take her children and leave her house. It was destroyed. Many other members, said Elder Christensen, had similar experiences.
Although grateful for their lives, members are now trying to rebuild under difficult conditions, he added.
Drinking water and food became an immediate priority, he said. Under the direction of District President Morris Buchun the Church purchased food and water to be distributed among members. Two days after the disaster other supplies and relief items arrived from the Church's Service Center in Guam.
During the first eight days following the disaster, the elders and couple missionaries on the island provided more than 500 man-hours of support to Church members, rebuilding houses and shelters, cleaning properties, repairing houses, and clearing downed trees and debris.
The Church also sent hygiene kits, newborn kits and clothing to Yap.
Elder Christensen said members are now focused on preventing disease — caused by poor sanitary conditions — and replenishing devastated fruit trees.
"There have not been any large cargo ships come into the harbor since the storm, because of concern over possible debris and sunken boats in the channel," said Elder Christensen. "All relief support is being flown onto the island at the present time."
Church members, said Elder Christensen, are working hard to recover.
"We are all so grateful that we are safe and realize that the Lord has truly been mindful of us and supported us through this experience," he said. "The Yapese saints are wonderful and humble people who are doing their best to live the gospel and keep their covenants with the Lord. . . . How grateful we are for the food, water and other items that the Church has provided."
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