Compassionate God… Draw near to us in this time of sorrow and anguish, comfort those who mourn, strengthen those who are weary, encourage those in despair, and lead us all to fullness of life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen
— Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating the Saints (Church Publishing: New York), page 733
Dear Companions in Christ:
Very serious tornadoes and thunderstorms moved throughout our state last week. Many trees were downed as a result of this significant weather, resulting in loss of power and damage to homes, buildings, and cars in communities ranging from Cheshire to Southbury, Danbury to Bethany. Sadly, two lives were lost. The emotional impact of these storms as well as the physical and financial loss is very real.
As communities begin to rebuild both physically and emotionally, we continue our prayers and support for those of you who have been directly impacted by the storm and for those who have offered kindness and assistance. And we give thanks to God for all of you who have cared for and continue to care for those impacted by the storms. We are grateful for your witness and for the blessing of neighbors helping neighbors across Connecticut.
We’ve been in contact with Mike Corey, who oversees our Disaster Response Ministry Network here in ECCT. He and other members of the Network have been connecting with persons around the state. He’s provided a two-sided brochure, in
English
and in
Spanish
, about a federal “Disaster Distress Helpline,” that you can share with those affected by a disaster. Disasters can serve as painful reminders to take preparedness seriously. Friday is the start of the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season, which could affect even more communities across our state.
As we offer our prayers for Connecticut, we also hold Hawaii in our prayers as their communities continue to be impacted by the erupting volcano. We have been in touch with Bishop Fitzpatrick of Hawaii and assured him of our prayers and support.
Please do let us know if there is anything else we can do to be of support to you in these times of loss and tumult. You are very much in our hearts and prayers.
In Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas The Rt. Rev. Laura J. Ahrens
Bishop Diocesan
Bishop Suffragan
