The Church reported Tuesday that all Church missionaries would be moved out of areas affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan (see full coverage of the press conference). All missionaries have now been moved to their new areas and are far from areas of concern.
Church leaders and representatives from Church headquarters are currently working with government and humanitarian organizations to provide assistance. Local leaders are also handling the needs of Church members in Japan.
According to the Presiding Bishopric of the Church:
We have begun providing direct assistance and are actively assessing ways that we can further support the Japanese people and their government during this crisis. The scope of our response may change as additional information becomes available over the coming weeks and months.
The Church appreciates those who have expressed a desire to help, but the high volume of calls and e-mails to the area offices in Japan to offer additional assistance is hindering their ability to respond to the crisis.
Many people have asked the Church how they might assist or make donations to the Church’s relief efforts. Church members or others who wish to donate may do so through the Humanitarian Aid Fund.
Official updates on this situation will continue to be posted on Newsroom (Subscribe by email, on Facebook and on Twitter).