September 2010 Prayer Focus

THE 33 MINERS

This summer we have learnt of tremendous catastrophes round the world - forest fires in America, flooding in China, Pakistan Poland France. They have been of such magnitude that we can hardly comprehend the severity and scale of what life must be like for those who have been involved. On 5th August an event occurred that we can all relate to – 33 miners became trapped in the ground in Chile. True, we have not been in a mine but we have all been in situations that have been forced upon us, when we are with family, friends, people for an enforced period of time. These situations rely on compromise or difficulties will arise.

The miners are trapped 700m below ground in an area the size of a large living room in the San José gold and copper mine. It is over 30 degrees hot and they have used vehicle batteries to power lights and charge their helmet lamps. After three weeks, they were found in good health, but had lost 10kg each. Oxygen, small capsules of food, vitamin supplements and fortified mineral water have been sent down the borehole but the miners have been told to watch their weight so they will be able to squeeze through the narrow escape shaft that is being drilled. Tape measures have been given to ensure they keep their waists below 90cm. A second borehole was drilled so that additional supplies of clothes, medicine, games, audio and video equipment, could be delivered. Letters have been exchanged through the shaft.

With no sunlight and being stuck in close proximity to each other in a relatively small area, the physical conditions will be difficult for the miners. Their government has contacted Chile's submarine fleet and NASA for tips on survival in extreme, confined conditions. They plan to set up special lighting in the tunnel to mimic night and day, with dull red lights to help the miners sleep. Separate areas will be designated for specific activities - sleeping, exercise, washing areas and they will follow a set regime, including exercise. The psychological pressure is also of great concern. They must not lose hope of survival. It has been stated that there are 5 miners who are suffering with depression and refuse to be televised. Antidepressant tablets are to be issued to all the miners because after the initial euphoria of being found they are likely to have periods of depression and anguish because they cannot sustain a feeling of euphoria indefinitely. (Any fears experienced during their time underground could manifest themselves in post-traumatic stress disorder, when they have been rescued).

By creating a "community" below ground the men will help each other through the situation. The miners will have to appoint a leader, who they trust and who will have the authority and mental strength to keep their spirits up, retaining a positive outlook and maintaining morale. This was demonstrated when they were shown singing the national anthem.
Candles have been lit at Camp Hope above ground at the site. Relatives are taking turns to stand vigil. They pray and wait............................

In your prayers remember: -

• The miners and their friends and families
• The engineers, experts and emergency services involved with the rescue