because it is our duty to help our brothers and sisters in the area. "How can we help them though? With empty hands? We cannot do it out of our resources alone. We need to join hands with all of you. Together we can do something to help our brothers and sisters. "We are now setting up special office space and e-mail and equipment for communication and relief work in case of an attack. Many friends have expressed a desire to partner with us as we have the staff, space, experience, language and knowledge. We have been doing this kind of work in this area for the last 12 years. For the past few years we have been blessed by partners with whom we were able to distribute food, blankets, heaters, etc. in Jordan and surrounding countries. Now, we will need to expand these efforts. "We have also requested a regional partner organization to write a spiritual booklet for Iraqis titled 'Hope for Iraq.' It is now being written and we hope to have it ready for distribution among refugees and others. Our hearts are burdened to stand by our brothers and sisters in their plight. "We will be happy to cooperate with you and your partners. We can receive gifts in kind (containers of clothes, blankets, etc.) and also funds to purchase food, medicine, tents, blankets etc. locally. The need will be for more than just food, clothing, and shelter. There will be a greater need for counseling and spiritual support. We expect a lot of people to be traumatized and feel that our role is to stand by them and help them see the love of our lord even in their misery. "We ask you to pray earnestly for everyone involved: * Pray for people who suffer now and are likely to suffer more; * Pray for refugees who may be driven out of their homes and land by fear, hunger or direct threat and danger; * Pray for staff and volunteers; * Pray for foreign aid workers in the region; * Pray for funds to cover the enormous need; * Pray for comfort and peace of heart straight from our Lord's hands!" Monetary gifts to help minister to needs in the Middle East can be sent to Christian Aid at the website www.christianaid.org and designated 420-MBM. For other gifts or other inquiries, write insider@christianaid.org and put MI-402 420-MBM on the subject line. See also quote of the week.