WEC Missionary and Betel Ministry Centre Lost in Victoria Fires

As the world looked on with dismay at the devastating fires in Victoria, WEC was caught up in the midst of the suffering when the Marysville based Betel centre was completely destroyed by fire. 

On the evening of Saturday 7th, the Betel Australia team was forced to abruptly evacuate the rehabilitation centre when massive bushfires suddenly appeared on the mountain behind their property.

It appears they were given no prior warning of the close proximity of the fires, although some had packed a bag. The giant flames rapidly and mercilessly razed the entire township to the ground, literally wiping Marysville off the map. 

Confusion reigned in the midst of the smoke, heat, panic and exhortation of the rescue workers.  It was during this time, that one of their much-loved co-workers was separated from them.  Once the caravan of Betel vehicles realized that Bian Tan was not in any vehicle, they tried to return for her but were prevented by the emergency workers.

 “Everything happened so suddenly. On one side of us an entire family were burned alive. On another side the mother of the family was killed. In front, another neighbour died.  There was virtually no time to react,” recalled one team member.  International WECers Mary and Elliot Tepper described the fact that any of the team escaped as “miraculous.”

Nevertheless Bian’s loss is keenly felt.  At her memorial service co-worker Myk McKenzie in her tribute to Bian said, “Her 24 hour companions were prostitutes and drug addicted women and girls from the streets. Only a Christ-like person could have withstood community life of this kind. But, of course, Bian was just that!  Christ-like.”

In spite of everything the team is more united and determined than ever to rise from the ashes and rebuild Betel Australia. The Betel men are all confessing Raul Casto's last words, "If we do not surrender, we will conquer."