One million people displaced, entire families missing, 400 confirmed deaths

Kerala, India – often referred to as God’s Own Country – a place known for its tranquil beauty and picturesque beaches, sits in ruins after a series of severe downpours has left the state under water.

A region that anticipates monsoon season every year from June to September, Kerala has found itself in a state of disaster with one million people displaced and a death toll that now surpasses four hundred, though many think the number is likely to be much higher.

On Tuesday, August 7, 331 children and adolescents formerly associated with armed forces and armed groups will be released in a ceremony in Gbudue State, South Sudan. CMMB and its partners, including UNICEF, will be participating at event, along with several South Sudanese government officials. Among those present will be General Chaplain Khamis Edward (Ministry of Defense), Christopher Muchiri Murenga (UNMISS Yambio HoFO), Mahimbo Mdoe (UNICEF Country Representative), Hon. Obwaha Claude Akasha (Deputy Chairperson), and Hon. Grace Datiro (Deputy Governor Gbudue State).

On June 3, Volcán de Fuego erupted in Guatemala, tragically affecting more than 1.7 million people. With 3,100 people now evacuated, some of Guatemala’s critical infrastructure and farmland have been completely destroyed. Volcanic ash covers a 12-mile radius and in some areas, entire villages have been buried.

The church is a sacred place where people come not only to pray and worship, but also to meet with other believers. In these meetings people receive and give encouragement, support, and service to one another.

“They told me to kill my mother.” This is the realty of life as a child soldier in South Sudan. It is a life of fear, brutality, and indifference to human dignity. On Wednesday, February 7th, more than 300 child soldiers were released by armed groups in Yambio, South Sudan. Since the start of the civil war over five years ago, it is believed that over 19,000 children have been recruited.