Local Schools in Asia Open Doors to Aid Displaced Families

By: David Harding 

We ask that you be in prayer for an ongoing ethnic and political crisis in an Asian country in which ACSI has a strong presence. Tensions between two communities escalated in May 2023 due to long-standing grievances, including issues related to land rights and political representation.  

This strife led to violent clashes, displacement of thousands of people, destruction of property, and widespread humanitarian concerns. The conflict has drawn national and international attention, with efforts underway to restore peace, but the situation remains volatile and sensitive. 

One of our ACSI network schools opened its doors as a shelter for students, teachers, and their families, who took refuge in the school building due to the escalating violence in the region. However, as the situation worsened, concerns for their safety forced them to relocate to refugee camps. 

The school’s leadership later moved their teaching and non-teaching staff to another campus. Seeking support for the children of their staff, they reached out to ACSI, who then connected the displaced families with a nearby Christian school, ensuring the children could continue their education despite the upheaval. 

Another ACSI school leader, though in a safer area, was deeply moved to assist those displaced by the violence. After praying, she felt called to bring her school into the relief camps, sharing her vision with her husband and teaching staff. Together, they initiated a learning center for young children within the camps, which soon expanded to accommodate older students. She mobilized volunteers from the camps to assist, allowing her teachers to continue their original duties, and the initiative grew with the support of others, establishing multiple learning centers where there was initially only one. 

The situation remains precarious, and ACSI urges continued prayers for peace, safety, and restoration for all affected families and for wisdom and strength for those stepping forward to help. These acts of kindness and solidarity underscore the resilience of the ACSI family’s faith, community, and compassion, even in the face of enduring challenges.