Reflecting on the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake

Dear KUC Family,

        Today marks the fifteenth anniversary of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.

        I remember watching in horror as the earthquake struck and the massive tsunami swept away towns and took so many lives. That evening, I called Pt. Bruce and asked what we could do to help. Both of us were at a loss.

        The next day I received an email from a group in Osaka that later became B1 through my missionary connections. They said they needed blankets, small gas stoves, instant food, and people who were willing to come and help dig out the devastation.

        At the same time, the news began reporting serious damage to the nuclear power plants. After talking with Pt Bruce, he felt it would not be safe for me to go alone. So Ed R., who used to attend KUC, decided to go with me.

        We drove to Costco, filled our carts, and maxed out my credit card buying supplies. Then we drove twelve hours north to Tohoku, to the town of Ishinomaki, one of the hardest hit areas.

        Along the way we were stopped by the military. We explained that we had supplies for the people and that on our way out we would take anyone who needed help leaving the town. They allowed us to pass.

        When we arrived—just three days after the earthquake—it was almost impossible to believe what we saw. There were boats on top of houses. Mud and debris were everywhere. The stench of the sea was overwhelming because the tsunami had dredged up everything from the ocean floor. It was brutally cold.

        Some things were very hard to see. Even days later there were still bodies caught in trees. Everyone was dirty and cold.

        We delivered the food and supplies and spent two days helping people dig out their homes while aftershocks continued. I remember children crying every time there was an aftershock.

        When we returned, we shared what we had seen with KUC. Our congregation partnered with the B1 group, and over time we sent more than fifteen mission and work teams to Tohoku. Through the church we delivered thousands of dollars in supplies and support to the region. It also energized us as a congregation to serve others in a time of great need.

         In times like these, we remember the words of Scripture: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved”

         I know many others have reflections on their experience in Tohoku and think it is important to share them.

In Christ,

Mark