Dear Church,
Last night, Rev. Jen Crow and her family experienced a frightening, traumatic event. Sometime after midnight, their house was struck by lightning and caught fire. Fortunately, the entire family, Jen, Loretta, Henry, Kate, and their dog, Teddy, were able to safely leave the house and they are all unharmed. Their house, however, is severely damaged from fire, water, and smoke. They will likely be displaced for many months as a result. Jen will be out of the office for the next few weeks.
With the help and support of many loving friends, Jen and her family have a place to stay and are figuring out their next steps.
At First Universalist, we care deeply about one another. Some of you have already asked me, "What can I do to help?" Right now, there are two concrete ways we can offer support:
- Cards of care and support: Cards with your caring thoughts and wishes would offer great comfort. Please send your cards to the address below and we will hand deliver them to Jen and her family:
Jen Crow and Family
First Universalist Church
3400 Dupont Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55408
- Gift cards: Gift cards to Wild Rumpus, Punch Pizza, and Target would be very practical and helpful. At Wild Rumpus, many of the children's books that have been ruined by water and smoke could be replaced. Punch Pizza is the kids' favorite restaurant. Target would meet their day-to-day needs as they rebuild their home. All gift cards can be sent to the church at the address above.
Hearing this news is hard. It may bring up powerful memories of moments when your life changed in a heartbeat. Please reach out to me, Elaine, Ruth, Lauren, or a member of the Pastoral Care Team if you need support.
We are here for one another. We will hold and support one another. We will be the ocean of love and care for one another, and for Jen and her family.
In gratitude for the strength and compassion of this community,
Justin Schroeder
