Today marks 870 days since the 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains in September 2023. Within seconds, 19,000 homes were destroyed, and almost 3,000 people lost their lives.
My team and I were deployed, arriving within 72 hours of the earthquake. We started what became a 14-week deployment.
Joining forces with local believers, a handful of PCCR trainees, together with other volunteers, were able to build 569 insulated shelters across 23 villages.
In many of these villages, conversations came up as the Muslim people tried to understand how volunteers from around the world were coming together in harmony and loving on them in this way! Responding to their questions, we were able to share with them Christ’s love on multiple occasions.
Over our time there, numerous relationships were built that continue to this day. Village leaders still reach out to wish me a Happy New Year or simply ask how I’m doing.
They send me pictures showing some of the shelters still standing strong against the elements, the thick insulation shielding families from the winter snows.
As they go through their third winter, many hope this season will be the one they can finally rebuild their homes as they continue to restore their lives.
We are blessed to have local partners continuing to nurture the seeds that were sown almost 2½ years ago!
Since Morocco, I’ve been in 10 other disasters, but the Berber people living in the mountains of Morocco will always hold a special place in my heart.

First two photos: September – November 2023

Last two photos: January 2026