The news from Japan and Ecuador is disturbing as the death tolls rise due to the earthquakes in both countries. So far, our United Methodist Committee On Relief (UMCOR) has people in place helping out in Japan. I imagine they will be developing a plan to help in Ecuador soon. Here is a link to their webpage showing all the places around the world where United Methodists assist people suffering from disasters, including 13 locations in the United States: http://www.umcor.org/
Please give as you are able and led by the Spirit. You can write checks to your local congregation with a note in the memo line stating it is for UMCOR and you can designate the location where you would like for funds to go.
Here is a link to a letter from Bishop Silvio Cevallos: http://www.umc.org/news-and-media/bishop-seeks-help-prayers-for-ecuador
Thank YOU!