This morning, May 12, there was an earthquake in southwest China. We felt it important to keep the community informed as we currently have an abroad program in China. We heard immediately from China Abroad Director, John Williams, this morning and the abroad group is safe. The following is a more detailed message from John:  

"It is 5:15 pm in China and 4:15 am at [Principia] when I send this. By the time you wake up you may have heard about a substantial earthquake in China. It occurred about 2:30 pm our time. The center was in southwest Sichuan province at a reported 7.8 on the Richter scale. It was felt in Beijing at a 3.2. It is apparently significant because communication with Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan, has been severed (including some mobile service). The Prime Minister of China has already departed Beijing to supervise the response efforts, which signals the seriousness that the national government is treating the situation. I am impressed by the commitment this government is making to respond to the people's crises.

First, we are absolutely safe and secure. Some of the group felt a mild tremor. We are in the city of Yicheng (find the Yangtze River, locate Wuhan, go directly west about four hours by highway or 1 1/2 day by boat, just below the 3 Gorges Dam). We were in the city museum when some felt the movement.

Second, we will be going to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan, in five or six days. The first stretch of our trip will be four days on the river, followed by an overnight in Chongqing, then a 5 or 6 hour drive to Chengdu. Folks in Beijing (we called shortly after the quake) are confident that our travel will be fine. As I have in the past, I rely on the judgment and care of the authorities and our travel company.  And it goes without saying we trust divine Mind's wisdom and guidance.

Third, the earthquake epicenter and damage was to the southwest of Chengdu. We are far to the east and will only be traveling through the eastern part of the province. Please expect that travel will be safe and secure, and our presence will bless the situation and the people of Sichuan."

Please join us in prayerful support of our students and colleagues.  
 
Linda Bohaker, Director
Principia Abroad Office