[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”126838″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]10/11/2021 Washington D.C. (International Christian Concern) – The impact of COVID-19 was felt around the world, but particularly so in persecuted communities that were already struggling pre-pandemic. In Nepal, the effects of the pandemic were devastating. It is estimated that more than 10,000 people died and more than half a million were affected by the virus. Due to the spread of COVID-19 and the resulting lockdowns, the country’s economy was also shattered.
This economic downturn included the closure of more than 12,000 churches. As a result, pastors and church leaders across the country lost their jobs overnight. Many of these church leaders relied on the support of their congregations to feed their families. Unfortunately, the government made matters worse by denying these believers crucial food assistance on account of religious bias.
In response, ICC teamed up with local churches in Nepal to bring food relief to pastors and church leaders in need. We particularly focused on directing aid toward those who have faithfully served the Lord in the region for many years and those who had the highest level of need.
In addition, the food packages also provided the Christian community with much needed encouragement. Although the Christian community has been cast aside by the authorities who should be protecting them, these aid packages remind them that they are not alone and that they have brothers and sisters around the world who are standing by their side.
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