Psalm 23 begins with:
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul.
For many people in third world countries, the water needed for daily life requires about six hours per day to attain. In these areas, the nearest water source is an average of 3.6 miles. When people walk to collect clean water, they are unlikely to make a just single trip.
The World Health Organization provides a definition of what is “reasonable access to water” of 5 gallons per person, per day within 0.6 miles from the person’s home. Providing a well will cut three miles from each trip for water amounting to greater access to water in fewer hours each day.
Once a well is completed, the great time savings related to collecting water allows other opportunities for the families. Their children receive more education. Clean water contributes to the health of the family, and can also be used to raise family gardens to feed them or care for animals.
Psalm 23 provides a picture of a quiet place where a person can be spiritually refreshed. Providing a well will provide numerous families the same serenity.
Please give to help Episcopal Relief and Development build wells. Place your donations in the copper water jug in the back of the church.