Coronavirus in Bangladesh: Snapshots of Life and Ministry
COVID-19 in Bangladesh
As is the case in many countries across the globe, Bangladeshis have been ordered to stay home. But unlike most in North America or Europe, few people in Bangladesh have internet at their houses or contact with the outside world. Most means of income generation there have been closed. Day laborers like rickshaw pullers, tea shop keepers, and barbers are out of work.
The government has closed until at least the end of April, and officials are asking people to avoid going on the road or to the market unless they're looking for food or medicine. Everyone must wear a mask, maintain two meters of separation, and wash their hands with soap every two hours.
10 Liters of Milk Isn't Enough
In normal times, Friendship Ministries focuses heavily on offering physical relief like food, blankets, and free education to people who need it while also using these efforts as a means to evangelism. And now more than ever, the low income families who benefit from these things are suffering as income ceases and resources dwindle. Pastor Ajit, the leader of Friendship Ministries, estimates that the ministries of Friendship Bible Church touch the lives of about 980 families.
Pastor Ajit normally milks cows for income (10 liters a day), but is giving it all away for free, along with a blanket, to people who need it, during the coronavirus pandemic. But 10 liters of milk a day isn't enough to provide for 980 families. Friendship Ministries is inviting North Americans to participate in caring for families in Bangladesh by donating a financial gift to their ministry.
