Nigeria love offering yields $20,000 to rebuild and heal.

The sum of $20,000 has been sent to Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN--the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) as a "love offering" from the Church of the Brethren in the US following the destruction of several EYN churches in interreligious violence.

On Feb. 18 five EYN churches were among many Christian churches in Maiduguri that were burned down or damaged during riots over cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad. Several EYN members were seriously injured in the rioting.

EYN general secretary YY Balami sent a reply acknowledging the gift "with thanks your love for us," the letter said. "This singular act has again reminded us that we are together, that what affects EYN also affects the Church of the Brethren. Kindly extend our appreciation and greetings to the churches and individuals who assisted financially and those who prayed for EYN."

The $20,000 equals about 2.6 million Nigerian Naira. The money will aid the affected congregations and support continuing EYN efforts toward peace and reconciliation.

The love offering was initiated by the Church of the Brethren General Board at its March meeting. The church at large has been invited to join in the offering and the response has been significant. Donations toward the love offering continue to be received. Make checks payable to the Church of the Brethren General Board with "Nigeria Love Offering" in the memo line, mail to 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.

Source: 7/19/2006 Newsline
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