On April 25, 2015, the country of Nepal was struck by a 7.8 earthquake. This disaster has left in its wake a tragedy beyond our comprehension. The enormous loss of life, the damage to the country’s infrastructure, and the effect on the livelihoods of the people of Nepal as well as many of its neighboring countries, is tremendous. Our hearts and thoughts go out to all those who are suffering as a result of this tragedy.
The Kathmandu Hongwanji, headed by Rev. Sonam Wangdi Bhutia, has always been involved in helping their community. In the wake of this disastrous earthquake their priority continues to be helping the community, in spite of the damage to their temple building. They are asking us to help support their efforts. I want to ask you to respond to their call for help.
As we respond to the call from Nepal, we must remember that tragedies and natural disasters happen constantly, all over the world. Let us remember that we are part of the world community and be willing to help at all times and in all situations. I ask that your temple or church be mindful of people everywhere. I want to encourage you to support not only this effort, but to engage in social welfare efforts in your communities as well.
Rev. Kodo Umezu
Bishop Buddhist Churches of America
April 27, 2015
BCA and Venice members like you can help victims of this earthquake by giving to the BCA Endowment Foundation with a special contribution. All of your funds will be sent directly to the Kathmandu Hongwanji to assist Rev. Sonam Wandhi Bhutia and his members in their relief efforts.
Please help Nepal and the Katmandu community in our time of suffering, The funds raised will be used to help all without regard to religion or ethnicity, since we are all part of the world community and feel strongly that we must help each other in times of need. Please be assured that all funds will be used for the restoration of the affected areas in Nepal and for only these purposes.
Reverend Sonam Wangdi Bhutia
Photos reprinted with permission from Reverend Sonam Wangdi Bhutia
Your gift, big or small, will make a lasting impact on those who need it most. You can send donations in the following ways:
- Give directly to the Buddhist Churches of America by mail.
Send a check payable to the Buddhist Churches of America Endowment Foundation (note: the BCA Endowment Foundation is now collecting and distributing donations for the BCA)
Please note NEPAL EARTHQUAKE RELIEF in the memo section of your check.BUDDHIST CHURCHES OF AMERICA ENDOWMENT FOUNDATION
1710 OCTAVIA STREET
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109 - Give through the BCA website using your credit card, debit card, or PayPal account to send a secure donation.
- Give through your local BCA temple or church (checks should be made payable to your local temple or church). Donations made to the local temples and churches will be forwarded to the BCA Headquarters.
Please send in your donations by JUNE 1, 2015 to the BCA.
We thank you in advance for your support and Dana.
In gassho,
Emily Kariya, VHBT President
P.S. For status updates about Rev. Sonam Wangdhi Bhutia and the Kathmandu Hongwanji’s relief efforts, please visit the BCA website or join BCA’s Facebook group. If you have any questions regarding this relief effort, please send inquiries to donate@bcahq.org.