Washington (BWA)--Baptist World Aid (BWAid), the relief and development arm of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA), has granted an initial sum of US$10,000 for earthquake relief in New Zealand.

BWA General Secretary Neville Callam expressed sorrow and solidarity of support to New Zealand Baptists and all those affected by the disaster. "We in the BWA are saddened by the loss of life and property and those who are listed as missing. The BWA calls on all Baptists throughout the world to enter into prayer for the country of New Zealand and to offer assistance where needed."