I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1: 3-6)
Thank you for your generous outpouring of love and compassion during these first days of Hurricane Florence. The flooding and cresting of rivers continue in North and South Carolina. New areas are overwhelmed with water. There are still twenty-eight counties in North Carolina under evacuation orders, more than 1100 roads have closed, and water evacuations continue.
And while the disaster continues to grow, our sisters and brothers throughout the country are stepping in to share resources, prayers, and gifts that make a difference.
Some updates:
1.
President John Denninger returned late last evening from visiting the Carolinas. He was able to visit with a number of pastors, witness the damage, bring some needed resources (with the generous help of LCMS Disaster Response), and most importantly – share our prayers with them.
2.
The following North Carolina congregations have sustained damage to their buildings, some more significant than others – each one with water damage, and now mold damage: St. Paul’s, Havelock; Messiah Wilmington; Calvary, Jacksonville; minimal damage at Our Redeemer, Goldsboro. At least four pastors have sustained damage to their homes and/or property.
3.
Again, some of the areas are not yet open and the rivers are still cresting. Assessment continues to take place. We are so thankful for the many offerings and gifts that have already been received. We will continue to send updates of what is needed, but please be patient while we gather information on what is needed and where. We don't want to overwhelm a distribution center with an overabundance of supplies they can't use. We are working with Orphan Grain Train (Millersville MD) to get a truckload of supplies down next week. Bethlehem in Aiken SC is helping coordinate flood buckets supplies. A truckload of supplies from Resurrection, Franklin and the city of Franklin will be going to Wilmington as soon as they get clearance to go in.
4.
Response Teams all across the nation are preparing to come to help with the response, recovery, and rebuilding process. I appreciate those who have indicated dates during October – this enables more time to identify staging locations and to know where to send folks. Please use our
web site and volunteer form so we can track this.
5.
Many of our Synod and District Disaster Response teams are ready to come help. It is great joy to know that in these moments, we are surrounded by such resources as Lutheran Church Charities, Crownpoint Ministries – Disaster Response, and Mercy in Action – Disaster Resources.
6.
Finally, our friend Sasha (Comfort Dog Ministry) is ready for to work and bring comfort, help and home to those hurting and in need. You can reach Sasha by emailing
comfortdog.hhi@gmail.com.
Keep praying as those whose lives have been turned upside down need them. Continue to pray God’s grace and mercy for them as they navigate a very unstable world.
Thank you.
Sally HIller
