Photo by Ava Babili
Greece (MNN) ― Greece is under a state of emergency as wildfires continue to burn, scorching the fringe around Athens. Four separate wildfire fronts rage in southern Greece, fanned by gale-force winds and heat, amid widespread speculation of arson.
According to government sources, seven people have been charged with starting blazes deliberately or through negligence. They are among 32 suspects arrested since the fires began August 24.
The government may look at the alleged arson as an act of terrorisma nd prosecute under Greece's anti-terror laws. Under those laws, authorities would have broader powers of investigation and arrest.
In the meantime, the villagers are fighting desperately to keep their homes. Historic monuments as of Monday afternoon have survived the flames. Others are keeping an eye on the situation and considering their plan of action, should they need one.
AMG International's Tasos Ioannidis says for the moment, the Cosmo Vision Center and their other work in Athens is safe. The Cosmo Vision Center serves as a base for the evangelistic effort in the region and the operation of the only evangelical Christian school in Athens, which offers an excellent education based upon Christian principles.
"The concern now is that the fire is not under control yet and that it is spreading", says Ioannidis. "It is not directly affecting our co-workers there, but the concern is that it could turn into some populated areas."
There are many who have lost their homes to the flames. Humanitarian aid is in place by the government and other Non-Government Organizations who have already sent supplies.
In light of that, AMG is still evaluating their aid response. In terms of evangelistic interruption, Ioannidis says their teams could use prayer. "It has affected some of our work in the Peloponnese where some of the major fires are. We have some outreach there, so we have a lot of local believers who are helping out there. It has not been a major disruption yet, but we are monitoring it and seeing how things will go."
