A prayer for those impacted by storms and other natural disasters:
Eternal God, in the midst of turmoil, storms and disasters–both locally and around the world–we pray for peace, restoration, and strength for those affected. We give thanks that your love is steadfast and your strength never fails. We pray for all in leadership positions in our communities, cities, states and nation that they may demonstrate courage and compassion as they seek to fulfill their responsibilities of providing care for those who seek guidance and relief. And, O Lord, in the midst of our own fears, by your Holy Spirit, grant us the gifts of faith, hope, and love and enfold us in your peace. Amen.
Hurricane Michael message from Panhandle Conference Dean Pastor Tom Holdcraft:
“Messiah Lutheran Church and her members have encountered significant damage as a result of Hurricane Michael. The synod office is collecting donations to relocate Interim Pastor Mary N. since she encountered destruction in the rental home. Donations of money or gift cards would be helpful for congregants if you are able. Please keep them in prayers during this time of recovery and healing.”
Gift cards are recommended for stores like Walmart, Home Depot, Target, etc. Please send gift cards to the synod office (3838 W. Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33607). Please send donations to the synod office with ‘disaster relief’ in the memo. Volunteers can register with Volunteer Florida for general relief and response. The synod office will also be working with pastors and others to coordinate emotional, spiritual, and pastoral care and support for the community.
Your generous support of the Florida-Bahamas Synod Disaster Response Fund strengthens our ability to respond and support individuals and congregations following a hurricane or other disaster. Donations to this fund also support ongoing partnership and response to disasters in Haiti and the Caribbean. Donations that are designated for a particular storm or disaster are only used for that purpose. Donations that are designated for the Disaster Fund generally are more flexible and able to be used where most needed.
Make sure you and your congregation are ready to respond in the event of a disaster. Review the synod’s Disaster Response Plan and be aware of the processes and protocols for requesting support. Our protocol is to work through the Conference Deans in responding to disaster, so pastors need to be communicating with their Conference Dean about impact and damage in their communities.
Stay connected to Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR), who stay ‘on the ground’ and involved in disaster recovery over the long-term.
