Justice at the Gate - Building strategic partnerships to mobilize Christians to pray effectively and to vote righteously
September 27, 2005
Our hearts are grateful for God's mercy on our state and heavy for those in Mississippi, Louisiana and now East Texas whose lives and property have been devastated by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. We in Texas give thanks and praise to the God of Creation for the mercy poured out upon Texas. Had Rita hit Galveston and Houston, the devastation and loss of life would have been multiplied many times over. But that doesn't lessen the impact on families who live in Orange, Jefferson, Jasper and Newton Counties – the hardest hit in Texas.
Texas was already depleted from the influx of evacuees from Hurricane Katrina. Our state became a place of refuge, comfort and provision as churches, individuals and agencies opened their hearts and pocketbooks to minister to those displaced by Katrina. From the largest to the smallest cities, the entire state was mobilized by our Governor and by the body of Christ's compassion to meet needs and take in families. When Rita was on the way, evacuees in the target areas had to be moved. As you know, it was the largest evacuation in the history of our nation. Although God was merciful to us and the full brunt of Rita missed most of our state, thousands are homeless and destitute.
In the dense piney woods of Southeast Texas, huge pine trees crashed on houses, cars and continue to obstruct roadways so that rescue workers cannot even assess the damage. It's extensive. Entire towns have been destroyed.
Many of you know our dear friends, Pastor Charles and Beverly Burchett of First Baptist Church, Kirbyville in Jasper County. Charles and Beverly have set up a staging area for Somebody Cares to distribute water, food and the touch of Jesus to hurting people in the region. Yesterday when Beverly called she said, "You can't imagine the destruction. People have lost everything, and they're desperate for water and food." FBC Kirbyville is one of the few churches that has phone service in the region, probably because they have an old-fashioned phone that doesn't require electricity to run. They are fully engaged in meeting desperate needs. Somebody Cares has set up other staging areas at Triumph Church in Nederland and Cathedral of the Pines in Beaumont. Please consider giving online at http://www.somebodycares.org/ or calling 713-621-1498 to give a credit card gift or mailing your gift to: Somebody Cares, PO Box 570007, Houston, Texas 77257
Other ministries like Blood n Fire San Antonio and Daily Bread San Antonio are part of the Somebody Cares network and are sending trucks of food and water to the region. Mark Roye with Blood n Fire drove their portable kitchen to Nederland yesterday to prepare meals for the rescue workers so they can have strength to do their jobs. In the record heat that Texas is experiencing people in the counties that have no electricity are miserable – at the very least.
Pastors and leaders that we've known for years in the "prayer movement" are engaged in meeting needs and ministering comfort, encouragement and salvation to the hurting. We're seeing obvious answers to prayers that have been sown in cities all over the state and in repentance and reconciliation for racism that many have been involved in over the years. At the end of this update, you can read an AP story about Vidor, a small town in Orange County where the KKK ruled in recent years and no Blacks were welcome to stop there, much less live there. It's a story of redemption and transformation that you won't want to miss.
In spite of Katrina and Rita, there will be a Special Election in Texas on November 8 to decide if God's definition of marriage will be the law of the land. I've been asked by Texas Restoration Project to organize the state of Texas for the November 8 election. We're recruiting people in counties all over the state. Will you help? Many pastors and concerned citizens are committing to deliver voter guides to churches in their region as well as getting them out to their own congregations.
Please contact us by return email, by phone at 210-677-8214 or by fax at 210-677-8201 for questions or commitments to help.
Gratefully, Alice Patterson, President
PO Box 681148, San Antonio, Texas 78268
(210) 677-8214
www.justiceatthegate.org
JusticeAtTheGate@aol.com
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
KATRINA - Pray With The Methodists
World Methodist Prayer Team Update -- September 21, 2005
Thank you for being a part of our team and for your continued prayers and support. Even as we in the Houston area are still caring for the evacuees from Hurricane Katrina, we are now facing a similar threat of our own. Hurricane Rita is headed for the Galveston/Houston area with Category 4 winds. Would you join with in prayer and worship for this situation?
"Oh Lord we thank you that many who live here dwell in the shelter of the Most High, and now rest in the shadow of the Almighty. We here on the Gulf Coast say now that you are our refuge and fortress. We trust in you. Surely you will save us from flood waters and from deadly winds. Cover us in your faithfulness and be our shield. We will not fear darkness or destruction. No matter what happens around us, we look to you and worship you. We make the Most High our storm shelter; no harm will befall us in Jesus’ name. Release angels to surround our homes and guard us in all our ways. Yes Lord, let them lift us up high. We do believe we will trample on the forces of destruction and evil plans for us. Because we love you, you said you would rescue us and protect us in your great Name. We praise and thank you that as we call you answer. We worship you because you are with us in this trouble. How precious it is Lord that you will deliver us and honor us. You have satisfied us with a long life and have clearly shown us your salvation. Amen.”
Worship the Lord on our behalf by singing a hymn or chorus that lifts up the name of Jesus. All Hail the Power of Jesus Name!
Thank you,
Terry Teykl
Each week, World Methodist Prayer Team members will receive this brief email update so they can pray informed and effective prayers. If you wish to receive no further emails and cancel your membership, please unsubscribe here.
Presented by the sustaining partners of The World Methodist Prayer Team.
© Copyright 2005 The World Prayer Center, Inc. The content of this email may be reproduced if proper attribution is given to
The World Methodist Prayer Team.
http://worldmethodistprayerteam.net
Thank you for being a part of our team and for your continued prayers and support. Even as we in the Houston area are still caring for the evacuees from Hurricane Katrina, we are now facing a similar threat of our own. Hurricane Rita is headed for the Galveston/Houston area with Category 4 winds. Would you join with in prayer and worship for this situation?
"Oh Lord we thank you that many who live here dwell in the shelter of the Most High, and now rest in the shadow of the Almighty. We here on the Gulf Coast say now that you are our refuge and fortress. We trust in you. Surely you will save us from flood waters and from deadly winds. Cover us in your faithfulness and be our shield. We will not fear darkness or destruction. No matter what happens around us, we look to you and worship you. We make the Most High our storm shelter; no harm will befall us in Jesus’ name. Release angels to surround our homes and guard us in all our ways. Yes Lord, let them lift us up high. We do believe we will trample on the forces of destruction and evil plans for us. Because we love you, you said you would rescue us and protect us in your great Name. We praise and thank you that as we call you answer. We worship you because you are with us in this trouble. How precious it is Lord that you will deliver us and honor us. You have satisfied us with a long life and have clearly shown us your salvation. Amen.”
Worship the Lord on our behalf by singing a hymn or chorus that lifts up the name of Jesus. All Hail the Power of Jesus Name!
Thank you,
Terry Teykl
Each week, World Methodist Prayer Team members will receive this brief email update so they can pray informed and effective prayers. If you wish to receive no further emails and cancel your membership, please unsubscribe here.
Presented by the sustaining partners of The World Methodist Prayer Team.
© Copyright 2005 The World Prayer Center, Inc. The content of this email may be reproduced if proper attribution is given to
The World Methodist Prayer Team.
http://worldmethodistprayerteam.net
Friday, September 16, 2005
KATRINA - God’s Strength for Long Term CARE
With over 5,000 CEN Organizations, partners are responding now to “National Commitment Sunday” prior to National Day of Prayer and Remembrance
(CEN, Sept. 15) PHOENIX, Ariz. – Christian Emergency Network (CEN) CEO Mary Marr called upon Christians to join together on the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance – as called for by President Bush. “As we join with millions of Americans in prayer for the victims of Katrina, the rescuers and the entire nation, we call also upon pastors and their church members to focus the prayer time to make a commitment to collaboratively join together so that the church is delivering a unified Pray-Care-Share Commitment on Sunday September 18,” said Marr.
To submit a Prayer-Care-Share commitment story, click here
America’s National Prayer Committee Chairman Dave Butts added, “Contemporary Americans have a real tendency to get excited about things for a brief period and then move on to the next crisis without finishing the task ahead of them. That's why we need to join with CEN in calling for church-wide long-term commitment to finishing the task of caring for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. May the National Day of Prayer be a powerful beginning to a commitment for all the Church to consistently, persistently pray, care, and share the light of Christ with those who are in need.”
Ted Elmore, the associate director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas concurred with Marr. He said, “Scripture often calls us to ‘remember.’ For those committed to doing life inside the purpose of God, the word ‘remember’ is meaningful. I want to join with CEN and others who are calling for Sunday, Sept. 18 as a day of national commitment in which the Body of Christ is being asked to do more together to steward resources God has given to complete the task in Hurricane Katrina relief. We seek to do life in such manner that will bring honor to our God and be of help to the people.”
Prayer
Marr noted, “As Scripture counsels, it is imperative that we pray continuously. As Christian relief ministries and denominations begin implementing their many programs, it is appropriate to pray for unity.” She recommended the specific requests below also be considered.
Pray for the reuniting of the many families that have been split apart for various reasons by Hurricane Katrina.
Pray for strength, vision and endurance for relief agencies, as this disaster requires long-term commitment and persistence.
Pray for the resettlement efforts in cities all across our country.
Pray for the Lord to speed the cleanup efforts all along the Gulf Coast.
As we are half-way through hurricane season, pray for protection, especially in this region from further storms that would hamper and complicate clean-up and rebuilding.
Pray that the Lord would move Hurricane Ophelia out to sea and minimize her affects on the eastern seaboard.
As people begin to come back into their devastated properties on the Gulf Coast for the first time, pray that they would seek the Lord for strength and help to rebuild their lives.
Pray for great wisdom for officials who now have to deal with the “sludge” and toxic remnants of Katrina.
The Port of New Orleans, shut down for more than two weeks because of Hurricane Katrina, is slowly resuming operations. Pray that recovery in this fifth largest port in the U.S. would go better than anticipated.
Pray that those being resettled in many different cities would hear a clear Gospel message and come to saving faith in Christ.
To learn how you can pray for those in need and demonstrate the love of Christ, visit, http://www.centoday.com/ministry_corps/prayer/prayer_main.php
Care
Marr noted, “As is obvious from the news coverage, the outpouring of support for this disaster is unprecedented. Consequently, it is very important that Christians monitor closely those ministries and churches that are demonstrating the love of Christ by caring for the most basic of needs, and doing so effectively, efficiently, and with the compassion of Christ.”
She continued, “In meetings with many national city and denominational leaders this week, CEN has learned the urgent needs they are facing. In collaboration with our many partners who are responding to the sheltering need, CEN has provided a questionnaire titled “Questions to Consider for Christian Sheltering.” http://www.centoday.com/ministry_corps/relief_church/shelting_guidlines.php
The questionnaire will assist any person, church or denomination to respond strategically, scripturally, and solidly to sheltering or rebuilding needs.
To learn how you can care for those in need and demonstrate the love of Christ, visit, http://www.centoday.com/ministry_corps/care/care_main.php.
Share
Marr pointed out CEN supports organizations that are committed to combining prayer, caring relief efforts while sharing the hope of Jesus Christ through this crisis. She noted also, “CEN has received many calls and emails requesting information on sheltering. Our best experts have told us that more information will be coming this week. CEN policy is to review the process being followed by any Christian organization with a Prayer-Care-Share focus that will provide us an outline of their plan and process.”
She added, “CEN has learned that the total sheltering and resettlement process may take up to two years with an interim stage of 90 days. Please send us the process and plans you or your church have in place or are considering in the coming weeks and months for us to review and post as a service to our partners by clicking onto the Pray-Care-Share Commitment button on our website home page.”
To learn how you can share with those in need and demonstrate the love of Christ, visit, http://www.centoday.com/ministry_corps/share/share_main.php.
Other resources:
Media
To read the latest CEN reports coming into the Command Center, visit, http://www.centoday.com/.
Pastors:
CEN is providing a courtesy copy of the sermon series “While It Happens” on the Sermon Central website. The complete sermon series, along with a four-part series entitled “Before It Happens” and another four-part series entitled “After It Happens” can be purchased in full directly from CEN at: http://www.cen-survival-kits.com/products.php?id=402.
Pray-Care-Share Inspiration:
SCRIPTURE:
“Pray, therefore, like this: Our Father Who is in heaven, hallowed (kept holy) be Your name.” Matthew 6:1
Outlook:
Holy Father, You are righteous, full of compassion and mercy.
We humbly pray and sing as we have been taught.
Song:
The Lord’s Prayer
For interviews with CEN Founder/Chairman Mary Marr, contact Judy Hannestad at 701-484-5028 judyhannestad20@aol.com
Christian Emergency Network leads Christians to intelligently pray for, sensitively care for, and strategically share the gospel with victims involved in a national emergency.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
KATRINA - 21 Days of 24 Hour Prayer
Someboday Cares ~ Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief
24-HOUR PRAYER
Houston Prays will be using the Somebody Cares Houston/America fellowship hall as the site for 21 days of prayer and fasting for the Katrina evacuees and the city’s relief efforts. Prayer began today from 6am-6pm; next week, prayer coverage will be offered around the clock. Anyone is welcome to join.
MEETING NEEDS IN A MONUMENTAL TASK
The needs are great: over 100,000 displaced residents in Houston and thousands throughout the state in need of clothing, housing, education, and income. Tremendous loss of life and property in Louisiana and Mississippi. But through the faithful support of our donors as well as our many partners who have donated gifts in kind or partnered with us in “connecting the dots,” Somebody Cares has been able to facilitate over $500,000 in grants and assistance to shelters along with the distribution $800,000 of gifts-in-kind. In our Houston office alone, we have distributed gift cards for food, clothing, gas, and phone calls to over 15,000 individuals, plus hundreds more who are being sheltered, fed, or clothed through SCA sponsored church shelters and distribution centers. We also distributed 1,000 cots to 16 shelters in Houston and Beaumont.
TRUCKLOADS OF SUPPLIES EN ROUTE
Megan Doyle, founder of Hope for the City in Minneapolis, called us Sunday to say she had 40 trucks of supplies ready to be shipped. Each had pallets of the same items divided up evenly: water, Gatorade, diapers, canned goods, dry goods, new clothes with the tags still on them, and personal care items like shampoo, deodorant, and aspirin. The trucks were ready to go, except for two things: Each of them needed a drop-site, and each of them needed a sponsor for the cost of the gas and the driver. Today, Somebody Cares was able to identify and supply drop sites for 10 trucks—four at our Somebody Cares evacuee operations in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas, and the others at disaster sites in Picayune, Slidell, Biloxi, Gulf Port, and Waveland—along with enough funds to cover the shipping.
RETURNING THE FAVOR
The Indonesian government has requested through the Indonesian Consulate in Houston that Saturday, September 17, be set aside as a day for Indonesians to serve the Hurricane Katrina evacuees as a gesture of gratitude for the contributions made by the city of Houston during the tsunami tragedy earlier this year. Because of our long-standing relationship with Indonesia and our work with tsunami relief, Somebody Cares was asked to facilitate the day of service, which we will host at Hosanna Church where over 50 Indonesian volunteers will serve lunch to evacuees, help with distribution of donated items, and possibly perform traditional Indonesian dances.
Your gift supports the ongoing work of Somebody Cares locally and globally. Please make checks payable to Somebody Cares and send them to PO Box 570007, Houston TX 77257. For credit card donations, please call our office, 713-621-1498, or visit our website, www.somebodycares.org. Somebody Cares reserves the right to apply funds toward the greatest need. Your donation is tax deductible.
KATRINA - National Commitment Sunday (9/18)
Salvation Army Commissioner Bassett joins Mary Marr calling for a “National Commitment Sunday”
on September 18
Purpose is to keep Christians focused and committed to responding as long as necessary
(CEN, Sept. 12) PHOENIX, Ariz. – In order to help ensure that Christian efforts in response to Hurricane Katrina will be sustained long-term, the Christian Emergency Network (CEN) and Salvation Army (SA) are calling on the Body of Christ to designate this Sunday, September 18 as “National Commitment Sunday.”
Salvation Army U.S Commissioner Todd Basset “As our nation unites and bows before Almighty God in prayer this week for the victims and grieving families, let us also seek Him for unified strength and love to care for those afflicted from Hurricane Katrina in Biblical proportion. We call upon each Christian to commit to what they will do or are already doing together as one Body of Christ on National Commitment Sunday, September 18.”
CEN CEO Mary Marr and Salvation Army Commissioner Todd Bassett said the purpose of the call is to help ensure that Christians nationwide will continue to pour out their time, talents, and love to Hurricane Katrina victims as long as necessary.
Marr explained, “Because our response to this tragedy is a reflection on our Lord, it is essential that we recognize that those impacted by our help influence their view of Jesus. So, CEN is calling for the Body of Christ to unite on National Commitment Sunday by a simple email response (commitment@cen911.com) to allow CEN to best serve our partners to implement and communicate their plans and distribute their resources well as good stewards over the coming months and years.”
Basset noted, “After 125 years of providing personal and worldwide response to disasters, the SA is now mobilizing for the largest response to a natural disaster since it began. Consequently, we understand the importance of joining with CEN to call on Christians to respond to this disaster with a message of prayer-care-share.” He noted that the National Commitment Sunday occurs on the same weekend as the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance called for by President Bush.
“These events occurring together should help us focus on what we must first do – pray – so that we can have the discernment to show care and share our resources in a manner pleasing to God,” added Marr.
The SA responds arm-in-arm with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Congressionally-mandated American Red Cross. The SA has provided leadership for many non-governmental agencies and faith-based groups for many years. Due to their seasoned history in responding meeting near-term needs including shelter, food, clothing, and financial aid, they are well-suited for the next phase of recovery regardless of their location and with their current infrastructure of 1,330 service centers which were in place well before this disaster struck.
The SA, while finalizing the direction for the next several months, will provide training and logistics to sustain their history of responding timely, effectively, and spiritually to the needs of disasters such as Hurricane Katrina.
Marr said the importance of National Commitment Sunday cannot be overstated. “Scripture teaches that ‘Faith without works is dead.’ Well, works without the proper grounding is just as useless. That’s why CEN is calling on our 5,000 partners from ministries, media, and churches who have already committed to praying, caring and sharing Christ together, to now urge all Christians they know to respond to National Commitment Sunday.”
She continued, “We need to unite according to Scripture, define the needs clearly, and respond to them biblically together with one voice, not many voices. Currently, due to the scope and span of the disaster, a united understanding of what the Christian community is doing or will do is not clear. If we do not unite, the Lord’s name will not be lifted up. Christians need the favor of God for this hour.”
CEN is asking all partners many who have already made commitments to participate in National Commitment Sunday to inform CEN through the email response address noted earlier. “Let us know what is being done by you personally, your church, and your denomination, ministry or media outlet,” said Marr. She noted “This information will then allow CEN to highlight some of this information in order to keep the long-term effort sustained.”
She added, “This is a time for the body of Christ to unite in biblical proportions to serve the needs physically and emotionally – but more important spiritually – throughout the months and days ahead. By following the biblical model first outlined in the book of Nehemiah, Christians will be empowered to respond in God-honoring and fruitful ways.”
She concluded, “As we pray as a nation, let us unite in one voice with our talent, time, and resources to lovingly share the Hope of Christ, together. For, together, we will stand ready to respond in biblical proportions, to the honor and glory of Christ alone.
“Please, send an email affirming your participation in National Commitment Sunday.”
For interviews with CEN Founder/Chairman Mary Marr, contact Judy Hannestad at 701-484-5028 or by email by clicking here. Audio clips are also available with Mary Marr and CEN ministry partners, click here. (User-CEN; Password-Katrina).
Christian Emergency Network leads Christians to intelligently pray for, sensitively care for, and strategically share the gospel with victims involved in a national emergency.
KATRINA - Salvation Army Serving Storm Survivors
The Salvation Army is currently providing services to storm survivors and first responders in the Gulf Coast states.
A $100 donation to The Salvation Army will feed a family of four for two days, provide two cases of drinking water and one household clean-up kit, containing brooms, mops, buckets, and cleaning supplies.
http://katrina.salvationarmy.org/USNSAHome.htm
KATRINA - Report From The Frontlines
Mission America Coalition Partners Share the Love and Grace of Jesus
A Report from Rev. Jarvis Ward in Jackson, Mississippi
Just two weeks ago, Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Gulf Coast of the U.S., bringing with it floods, wind and massive destruction. We’ve all watched – and many of us personally experienced – the after affects of this tragedy which has left all of us asking, “What can we do to help the victims?”
I’m glad to report that much that is being done by Mission America Coalition partners to help, and want to let you know of the many more ways that each of us can be involved in sharing the love and grace of Jesus Christ with the thousands of victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Living and ministering in and around Jackson, Mississippi has put me on the “frontlines” of the disaster. And, God is graciously opening many doors for me to serve by connecting local churches and Christian ministries that are responding directly and immediately to those who have been impacted by Katrina. We are also now seeking to connect the local groups with regional and national churches and ministries.
Keep in mind that we are still in the “Rescue” phase where we are working to provide immediate shelter, food, clothing, etc. This could continue for several more weeks as the search and rescue continues in some of the “hardest hit” spots on the coast. The “Recovery” phase follows and then finally the long term “Restoration” phase.
The compassionate Church (Body of Christ) moved by the compassionate Christ is making an eternal impact in the Gulf Coast region! We pray that it may intensify and enlarge until the entire region is overwhelmed with sustained, substantial Prayer, Care and Share bringing glory to God! The Body of Christ must, must stay engaged in this Biblical process!
There are many ways that you, your denomination, church or ministry can help in the coming days, weeks and years:
MONETARY DONATIONS: There are many fine ministries and organizations that have set up Katrina funds. Please prayerfully consider how and where God would have you donate financially for Katrina relief. The Mission America Coalition has set up a Katrina Ministry Fund that will allow the Coalition to work directly with local Churches and ministries who will be providing relief and support to the affected areas over the long haul. All funds donated will go directly to those on the frontline of need. Donate Online
SUPPLIES: Two relief distribution centers have been established. In Jackson, Mississippi (Christ United Methodist Church, Jackson, Mississippi, 601.956.6974) and on the coast (Compassion Alliance, Contact: Chad Holgerson 417.827.4389, www.Compassionalliance.org). In Jackson, CUMC will arrange for any truck sent with supplies to be unloaded and sorted (if needed). To allow the supplies to be distributed most quickly, please have the truck loaded with the pallets on the truck properly wrapped having all of the same items on each pallet (diapers on one pallet, shoes on another, first-aid kits, etc.), then the trucks may be driven directly to a POD (Point of Distribution) on the coast. Again, it would speed up the process of providing relief, if the sorting is done on the sending end.
VOLUNTEERS: Self-sustaining volunteers are needed on the coast immediately. Volunteers must be totally self-supporting, camping on site, with their own food, water, sleeping quarters, bathroom facility and tarps to cover supplies to be distributed.
HOUSING: Local churches are making the effort to shelter everyone in the unaffected areas and to keep the people until they secure permanent housing in that local area or in another city of their choice. MAC will forward your monetary donations to the Churches hosting any displaced people to help offset expenses.
In the coming days there will be many more ways to give money directly through churches, send truckloads of supplies and to send volunteers to help. Thank you in advance for what you have already done and will do to help the people of the Gulf Coast in the name of Christ. Please visit www.missionamerica.org to get updates so you and others can connect with the Church in the Gulf Coast region for ongoing ministry.
I want to share with you a final word for now from 2 Corinthians 1:3-5:
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion ad the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.”
May the Spirit of God energize the Church to do exceedingly abundantly more to glorify His name!
Your partner in Christ,
Rev. Jarvis Ward
MAC National Facilitator of City/Community Ministries
A Report from Rev. Jarvis Ward in Jackson, Mississippi
Just two weeks ago, Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Gulf Coast of the U.S., bringing with it floods, wind and massive destruction. We’ve all watched – and many of us personally experienced – the after affects of this tragedy which has left all of us asking, “What can we do to help the victims?”
I’m glad to report that much that is being done by Mission America Coalition partners to help, and want to let you know of the many more ways that each of us can be involved in sharing the love and grace of Jesus Christ with the thousands of victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Living and ministering in and around Jackson, Mississippi has put me on the “frontlines” of the disaster. And, God is graciously opening many doors for me to serve by connecting local churches and Christian ministries that are responding directly and immediately to those who have been impacted by Katrina. We are also now seeking to connect the local groups with regional and national churches and ministries.
Keep in mind that we are still in the “Rescue” phase where we are working to provide immediate shelter, food, clothing, etc. This could continue for several more weeks as the search and rescue continues in some of the “hardest hit” spots on the coast. The “Recovery” phase follows and then finally the long term “Restoration” phase.
The compassionate Church (Body of Christ) moved by the compassionate Christ is making an eternal impact in the Gulf Coast region! We pray that it may intensify and enlarge until the entire region is overwhelmed with sustained, substantial Prayer, Care and Share bringing glory to God! The Body of Christ must, must stay engaged in this Biblical process!
There are many ways that you, your denomination, church or ministry can help in the coming days, weeks and years:
MONETARY DONATIONS: There are many fine ministries and organizations that have set up Katrina funds. Please prayerfully consider how and where God would have you donate financially for Katrina relief. The Mission America Coalition has set up a Katrina Ministry Fund that will allow the Coalition to work directly with local Churches and ministries who will be providing relief and support to the affected areas over the long haul. All funds donated will go directly to those on the frontline of need. Donate Online
SUPPLIES: Two relief distribution centers have been established. In Jackson, Mississippi (Christ United Methodist Church, Jackson, Mississippi, 601.956.6974) and on the coast (Compassion Alliance, Contact: Chad Holgerson 417.827.4389, www.Compassionalliance.org). In Jackson, CUMC will arrange for any truck sent with supplies to be unloaded and sorted (if needed). To allow the supplies to be distributed most quickly, please have the truck loaded with the pallets on the truck properly wrapped having all of the same items on each pallet (diapers on one pallet, shoes on another, first-aid kits, etc.), then the trucks may be driven directly to a POD (Point of Distribution) on the coast. Again, it would speed up the process of providing relief, if the sorting is done on the sending end.
VOLUNTEERS: Self-sustaining volunteers are needed on the coast immediately. Volunteers must be totally self-supporting, camping on site, with their own food, water, sleeping quarters, bathroom facility and tarps to cover supplies to be distributed.
HOUSING: Local churches are making the effort to shelter everyone in the unaffected areas and to keep the people until they secure permanent housing in that local area or in another city of their choice. MAC will forward your monetary donations to the Churches hosting any displaced people to help offset expenses.
In the coming days there will be many more ways to give money directly through churches, send truckloads of supplies and to send volunteers to help. Thank you in advance for what you have already done and will do to help the people of the Gulf Coast in the name of Christ. Please visit www.missionamerica.org to get updates so you and others can connect with the Church in the Gulf Coast region for ongoing ministry.
I want to share with you a final word for now from 2 Corinthians 1:3-5:
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion ad the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.”
May the Spirit of God energize the Church to do exceedingly abundantly more to glorify His name!
Your partner in Christ,
Rev. Jarvis Ward
MAC National Facilitator of City/Community Ministries
Saturday, September 10, 2005
KATRINA - Where Was God??
GOD IS WHERE?
How do you explain sadness? How do you make sense out of suffering? Why are we so surprised when evil triumphs? Why do bad things happen to good people? So many questions — so few answers.
What have you said to your congregation — to your children — to yourself — when the question comes up, "Where was God during Hurricane Katrina?"?
I have heard people say that the hurricane was allowed because of man's rebellion or even, as one man wrote, because President Bush supported the removal of the Jews from Gaza. Is that your kind of God? I don't begin to understand how God works, but I do know He is always love. Kenneth Samples wrote, "While God's universe is majestic and eloquently designed to provide humankind with a fine habitat on Earth, it can also be a powerfully dangerous place at times." (Christian Wire Service)
We warn our children all the time that life can never be taken for granted — that we must guard and revere it. Nature has proven difficult to control or even predict. "Don't mess with Mother Nature." We respect it, and take great strides to plan for it.
I don't understand God's ways, but I trust Him. I remember reading once where C.S. Lewis, in deep despair over the loss of his wife, cried out to God, "Why?" The answer He received was, "Son, even if I could explain it to you, you would not understand. It would be like attempting to teach physics to a 4-year-old." We just trust Him — even when the answers don't always emerge!
I saw God in the brave men and women rescuing their countrymen from a rooftop — giving cold water to a stranger — manually operating a ventilator when the power was off — helping a helpless child find his mother. Do you know when I see God in the hurricane? When men and women like you put your own needs aside in the interest of your flock and you love, even as Christ has loved you. "Whatever you did for one of the least of these" ... God was there.
I'll never understand it, but I pray I never stop trusting His unmistakable control.
Have a blessed weekend. —HB London
How do you explain sadness? How do you make sense out of suffering? Why are we so surprised when evil triumphs? Why do bad things happen to good people? So many questions — so few answers.
What have you said to your congregation — to your children — to yourself — when the question comes up, "Where was God during Hurricane Katrina?"?
I have heard people say that the hurricane was allowed because of man's rebellion or even, as one man wrote, because President Bush supported the removal of the Jews from Gaza. Is that your kind of God? I don't begin to understand how God works, but I do know He is always love. Kenneth Samples wrote, "While God's universe is majestic and eloquently designed to provide humankind with a fine habitat on Earth, it can also be a powerfully dangerous place at times." (Christian Wire Service)
We warn our children all the time that life can never be taken for granted — that we must guard and revere it. Nature has proven difficult to control or even predict. "Don't mess with Mother Nature." We respect it, and take great strides to plan for it.
I don't understand God's ways, but I trust Him. I remember reading once where C.S. Lewis, in deep despair over the loss of his wife, cried out to God, "Why?" The answer He received was, "Son, even if I could explain it to you, you would not understand. It would be like attempting to teach physics to a 4-year-old." We just trust Him — even when the answers don't always emerge!
I saw God in the brave men and women rescuing their countrymen from a rooftop — giving cold water to a stranger — manually operating a ventilator when the power was off — helping a helpless child find his mother. Do you know when I see God in the hurricane? When men and women like you put your own needs aside in the interest of your flock and you love, even as Christ has loved you. "Whatever you did for one of the least of these" ... God was there.
I'll never understand it, but I pray I never stop trusting His unmistakable control.
Have a blessed weekend. —HB London
KATRINA - Pastoral Leader's Log
>From http://www.JoeMcKeever.com
---------------------------------
Katrina Log For Saturday September 10
by Joe McKeever
They're now saying they may have overestimated the number of dead in New
Orleans. I certainly hope so. It beats me how they ever came up with
figures of 20,000 or even 40,000 in the first place. You get these local
politicians in front of microphones, they're exhausted beyond words,
trying hard to say something that might be helpful, and these numbers come
out. To their discredit, the media took it at face value. I pray that on
reentering New Orleans, we'll have surprisingly few funerals to conduct.
I noticed something this week about television. The people most affected
by the hurricane, people who have relocated into homes and hotels, are
watching very little of the continuous coverage. I've not asked any of
them, but can tell you personally, it hurts too badly. Neil and Julie and
I ate burgers yesterday in BackyardBurgers here in Columbus, MS, and the
lone television mounted on the wall had closed captioning. We sat there
glued to reading the words from anchors and leaders, and felt the burdens
descend on our shoulders again. We will meet this soon enough, just as
quickly as we are told it's safe to come home.
The radio dials in New Orleans are broadcasting nothing but a cooperative
play from a number of stations with 24 hour coverage of the storm damage.
I suppose that's the right thing to do, although if I were there, I think
I'd be wanting a station to broadcoast some light, uplifting music. Say
some Tommy Dorsey or Glenn Miller. At least some of the time.
Next Wednesday, we're inviting our Baptist pastors--the ones we can
contact--to meet us in Jackson, Mississippi, at First Baptist Church
there. It's downtown, across the street from the state capitol. We'll go
to the fourth floor conference room, beginning at 9 am, although at first
we'll be standing around and hugging and talking. So, if you are in touch
with any of our Baptist pastors from metro New Orleans, pass the word,
please.
A young pastor of a church in east New Orleans that was fairly well
destroyed said to me, "What will we ever do? I don't know what to do now."
I wrote back in my email, "My friend, you are about to see something you
will be talking about the rest of your life. God is about to do a work
that will change your ministry forever, and you will always be grateful
you were there to see it happen.
"God has directed the attention of the world to New Orleans, and the
attention of all of Southern Baptists to the churches of New Orleans.
Soon, you will have a dozen or more churches to adopt your church. They'll
be sending people in to help you. If your church has to be bull-dozed and
rebuilt from scratch, you'll have lots of friends to help.
"To rephrase the famous speech from Henry V, 'There are people serving God
in other places right now who will wish they were here and in on this
miracle God is about to do. But you are here. Nothing about you or your
church or this city is ever going to be the same.
"Let's believe God for this."
Whenever I find people who express a concern for us, I tell them to pray
that God will bless our pastors with a special love for Him and this place
He has sent them to minister. And to go back to their churches and tell
some of the people to get ready to come down and help us. (Those able to
do real work and who don't mind sleeping on the floor of the educational
building; that seriously narrows the field, doesn't it.) And I tell them,
if they want to send an offering that will go directly to help the
churches and pastors, send it to NEW ORLEANS ASSISTANCE, Louisiana Baptist
Foundation, p. o. box 311, Alexandria, LA 71309. And lastly, to tell
people this website www.joemckeever.com to keep up with what's going on in
Baptist work in our city.
A final note: To our beloved friends on the North Shore, on the
Mississippi and Alabama Coasts also seriously affected, nothing I say here
is to forget you or minimize what you are enduring. Our love and prayers
go to you. We're just trying to be faithful to our immediate assignment.
--
Comment on this article and read what others had to say at:
http://www.joemckeever.com/mt/archives/000155.html
---------------------------------
Katrina Log For Saturday September 10
by Joe McKeever
They're now saying they may have overestimated the number of dead in New
Orleans. I certainly hope so. It beats me how they ever came up with
figures of 20,000 or even 40,000 in the first place. You get these local
politicians in front of microphones, they're exhausted beyond words,
trying hard to say something that might be helpful, and these numbers come
out. To their discredit, the media took it at face value. I pray that on
reentering New Orleans, we'll have surprisingly few funerals to conduct.
I noticed something this week about television. The people most affected
by the hurricane, people who have relocated into homes and hotels, are
watching very little of the continuous coverage. I've not asked any of
them, but can tell you personally, it hurts too badly. Neil and Julie and
I ate burgers yesterday in BackyardBurgers here in Columbus, MS, and the
lone television mounted on the wall had closed captioning. We sat there
glued to reading the words from anchors and leaders, and felt the burdens
descend on our shoulders again. We will meet this soon enough, just as
quickly as we are told it's safe to come home.
The radio dials in New Orleans are broadcasting nothing but a cooperative
play from a number of stations with 24 hour coverage of the storm damage.
I suppose that's the right thing to do, although if I were there, I think
I'd be wanting a station to broadcoast some light, uplifting music. Say
some Tommy Dorsey or Glenn Miller. At least some of the time.
Next Wednesday, we're inviting our Baptist pastors--the ones we can
contact--to meet us in Jackson, Mississippi, at First Baptist Church
there. It's downtown, across the street from the state capitol. We'll go
to the fourth floor conference room, beginning at 9 am, although at first
we'll be standing around and hugging and talking. So, if you are in touch
with any of our Baptist pastors from metro New Orleans, pass the word,
please.
A young pastor of a church in east New Orleans that was fairly well
destroyed said to me, "What will we ever do? I don't know what to do now."
I wrote back in my email, "My friend, you are about to see something you
will be talking about the rest of your life. God is about to do a work
that will change your ministry forever, and you will always be grateful
you were there to see it happen.
"God has directed the attention of the world to New Orleans, and the
attention of all of Southern Baptists to the churches of New Orleans.
Soon, you will have a dozen or more churches to adopt your church. They'll
be sending people in to help you. If your church has to be bull-dozed and
rebuilt from scratch, you'll have lots of friends to help.
"To rephrase the famous speech from Henry V, 'There are people serving God
in other places right now who will wish they were here and in on this
miracle God is about to do. But you are here. Nothing about you or your
church or this city is ever going to be the same.
"Let's believe God for this."
Whenever I find people who express a concern for us, I tell them to pray
that God will bless our pastors with a special love for Him and this place
He has sent them to minister. And to go back to their churches and tell
some of the people to get ready to come down and help us. (Those able to
do real work and who don't mind sleeping on the floor of the educational
building; that seriously narrows the field, doesn't it.) And I tell them,
if they want to send an offering that will go directly to help the
churches and pastors, send it to NEW ORLEANS ASSISTANCE, Louisiana Baptist
Foundation, p. o. box 311, Alexandria, LA 71309. And lastly, to tell
people this website www.joemckeever.com to keep up with what's going on in
Baptist work in our city.
A final note: To our beloved friends on the North Shore, on the
Mississippi and Alabama Coasts also seriously affected, nothing I say here
is to forget you or minimize what you are enduring. Our love and prayers
go to you. We're just trying to be faithful to our immediate assignment.
--
Comment on this article and read what others had to say at:
http://www.joemckeever.com/mt/archives/000155.html
KATRINA - Somebody Cares Reports
Katrina Update: September 8, 2005
Cot Distribution
Nearly all of the 1000 cots donated by Operation Blessing International have been distributed to churches and ministries that have turned their facilities to shelters in Houston and Beaumont. We have also been connecting churches in Louisiana and Alabama with OBI distribution centers for cots and other supplies.
Cards for Katrina
Gift card distribution continues throughout the week as we begin the transition from crisis relief to recover, then eventually to rebuilding. Our goal now is not only to meeting immediate with gifts cards, food, and clothing, but to connect evacuees with our local network of churches. To date, in our office alone, we have helped over 11,000 individuals of all ages through the generation outpouring of cards. We have also purchased 12 computers to facilitate our volunteers so they can better assist our new neighbors in locating housing, employment, and missing family members.
Family Reunited
A family was reunited through the efforts of one our volunteers after being separated from Hurricane Katrina. The father called the Somebody Cares office looking for phone cards, but being in a hospital, he was unable to come to the warehouse. Cindy, our volunteer, offered to make phone calls for, so he gave her the numbers to reach his daughters. During the afternoon, the circuits were busy and she was unable to through. When she arrived at home, she tried again and got through to his youngest daughter. She was thrilled to have received the phone call and locate her father!
Report from the Hill Country
Hill Country Daily Bread, one of our Somebody Cares ministry partners, acquired a Christian camp seven miles from Boerne TX to be a shelter. The facility will open Friday with the support of at least 10 churches in the area. It will hold 100 people on bunk beds, in rooms that are air conditioned with full kitchen and dining areas. There is also a chapel, recreation room, laundry facility , a computer / phone room for personal communications, nurses station, and bus transportation into town. “Oh yes, “ adds HCDB director David Hubbard, “and a wonderful view of the hill country!”
Water Truck for Gulf Port
“Denny, Doug Stringer here. How are ya'll doing? What are some of your greatest needs right now and how can we direct help your way?” Doug sent the email to Denny Nissley of Christ in Action, working in Gulf Port, MS. The answer came back quickly. One of the urgent needs was a 30,000 gallon tank truck for fresh potable water. Today, Doug was able to call today with the good news that Somebody Cares America was sending funding to purchase the truck!
Your gift supports the ongoing work of Somebody Cares locally and globally. Please make checks payable to Somebody Cares and send them to PO Box 570007, Houston TX 77257. For credit card donations, please call our office, 713-621-1498, or visit our website, www.somebodycares.org. Somebody Cares reserves the right to apply funds toward the greatest need. Your donation is tax deductible
Cot Distribution
Nearly all of the 1000 cots donated by Operation Blessing International have been distributed to churches and ministries that have turned their facilities to shelters in Houston and Beaumont. We have also been connecting churches in Louisiana and Alabama with OBI distribution centers for cots and other supplies.
Cards for Katrina
Gift card distribution continues throughout the week as we begin the transition from crisis relief to recover, then eventually to rebuilding. Our goal now is not only to meeting immediate with gifts cards, food, and clothing, but to connect evacuees with our local network of churches. To date, in our office alone, we have helped over 11,000 individuals of all ages through the generation outpouring of cards. We have also purchased 12 computers to facilitate our volunteers so they can better assist our new neighbors in locating housing, employment, and missing family members.
Family Reunited
A family was reunited through the efforts of one our volunteers after being separated from Hurricane Katrina. The father called the Somebody Cares office looking for phone cards, but being in a hospital, he was unable to come to the warehouse. Cindy, our volunteer, offered to make phone calls for, so he gave her the numbers to reach his daughters. During the afternoon, the circuits were busy and she was unable to through. When she arrived at home, she tried again and got through to his youngest daughter. She was thrilled to have received the phone call and locate her father!
Report from the Hill Country
Hill Country Daily Bread, one of our Somebody Cares ministry partners, acquired a Christian camp seven miles from Boerne TX to be a shelter. The facility will open Friday with the support of at least 10 churches in the area. It will hold 100 people on bunk beds, in rooms that are air conditioned with full kitchen and dining areas. There is also a chapel, recreation room, laundry facility , a computer / phone room for personal communications, nurses station, and bus transportation into town. “Oh yes, “ adds HCDB director David Hubbard, “and a wonderful view of the hill country!”
Water Truck for Gulf Port
“Denny, Doug Stringer here. How are ya'll doing? What are some of your greatest needs right now and how can we direct help your way?” Doug sent the email to Denny Nissley of Christ in Action, working in Gulf Port, MS. The answer came back quickly. One of the urgent needs was a 30,000 gallon tank truck for fresh potable water. Today, Doug was able to call today with the good news that Somebody Cares America was sending funding to purchase the truck!
Your gift supports the ongoing work of Somebody Cares locally and globally. Please make checks payable to Somebody Cares and send them to PO Box 570007, Houston TX 77257. For credit card donations, please call our office, 713-621-1498, or visit our website, www.somebodycares.org. Somebody Cares reserves the right to apply funds toward the greatest need. Your donation is tax deductible
KATRINA - Respond Biblically Not Impulsively
Aligning Our Responses with the Mind of Christ
CEN Founder calls on pastors, Christian leaders to promote a Katrina response that is biblical, not impulsive
(CEN, Sept. 10) PHOENIX, Ariz. – Christian Emergency Network (CEN) CEO Mary Marr called on pastors and other Christian leaders to deliver an important message to their congregants and communities this weekend. Marr said, “With the Federal Bureau of Investigation reporting that as many as 2,500 fraudulent scams have already developed in response to Hurricane Katrina, is it absolutely essential that Christians respond biblically, and not impulsively, to the needs of the victims of the storm.”
She continued, “Scripture counsels that Christians should ‘…take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ’ (2 Corinthians 10:5b NIV). That includes how to demonstrate the love of Jesus to the victims of Katrina.” Marr added, “In the Sept. 9 study from Oswald Chambers’ ‘My Utmost for His Highest,’ Chambers observed, ‘How much Christian work there is today which has never been disciplined, but has simply sprung into being by impulse.’ Those words are even more apt today than they were when he penned them decades ago. While we are thrilled with the outpouring of support being demonstrated by Christians we are concerned also that some are reacting impulsively. That is why we believe it is so critical that Christians remember to approach this and other disasters with a message of prayer-care-share.”
She explained, “We should not spring into action by impulse, but prayerfully, and by surrendering ourselves completely. Then, we can care properly and earn the right to share the Gospel.”
National Commitment Sunday
To help ensure that Christians are collaborating, as CEN is with Franklin Graham and other Christian leaders to deliver a prayer-care-share message, CEN is joining with Christian churches, ministries and leaders in calling for National Commitment Sunday on September 18, 2005.
Marr observed, “All Christians, churches, and ministries can and must do something to support the hurricane victims. If each person will seek the Lord’s direction and prompting, and then obediently follow through and respond, we will see an unprecedented outpouring of God’s love and grace.”
She continued, “Each person, church or ministry is capable of participating. Some will want to help out financially by sending funds or supplies, others will be involved in actively sharing the Gospel, and others prompted to specifically pray for the situation and the relief workers.”
Hence, CEN is asking for pastors and other Christians to make a commitment by Sunday September 18 and e-mail a one paragraph summary of the commitment to commitment@cen911.com. Marr explained, “Scripture relates “…faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17 NIV).
Marr added, “Each Christian, each church, every ministry has the opportunity to create action by committing to prayer, caring, and sharing the Gospel at such a time as this. Send your commitment outlining what you have done, or will commit to do and join the church in helping turning sorrow into joy with God’s power.”
Prayer
Noting the importance of prayer, Marr said, “We praise the Lord for the president’s declaration of a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance on September 16. As Scripture counsels, it is imperative that we pray continuously. As Christian relief ministries and denominations begin implementing their many programs, it is appropriate to pray for unity,” noted Marr. Other prayer considerations include:
That Christians would respond to appeals for help compassionately, yet wisely.
That those giving would be protected from falling prey to fraudulent scams, and that those perpetrating them would be exposed and policed.
Pray for church and ministry leaders to demonstrate unity and courage as they give assistance as they minister in this crisis. And, the Christian community will present a visible united front and clear mission in modeling the love of Jesus Christ to the world in these troubled times.
Pray for state and national leaders to outwardly support the National Day of Prayer.
To learn how you can pray for those in need and demonstrate the love of Christ, visit, http://www.centoday.com/ministry_corps/prayer/prayer_main.php
Care
Marr noted, “CEN is aware of the wonderful work of so many Christian ministries and denominations partnering with CEN. With so many pitching it, it is clear that Christians are responding with compassion.”
To learn how you can care for those in need and demonstrate the love of Christ, visit, http://www.centoday.com/ministry_corps/care/care_main.php.
Share
Marr pointed out CEN supports organizations that are committed to combining prayer, caring relief efforts while sharing the hope of Jesus Christ through this crisis.
To learn how you can share with those in need and demonstrate the love of Christ, visit, http://www.centoday.com/ministry_corps/share/share_main.php.
Concert to Benefit Salvation Army
Meanwhile all major broadcast networks joined together Friday night to raise funds for The Salvation Army and other relief agencies. Programming included a primetime special, “SHELTER FROM THE STORM: A CONCERT FOR THE GULF COAST,” from 8-9 p.m. EDT. The Salvation Army’s website donation information can be found at www.salvationarmyusa.org.
Other resources:
Media
To read the latest CEN reports coming into the Command Center, visit, http://www.centoday.com/.
For a collection of interviews from Marr and other Christian leaders, click here
Pastors:
CEN is providing a courtesy copy of the sermon series “While It Happens” on the Sermon Central website. The complete sermon series, along with a four-part series entitled “Before It Happens” and another four-part series entitled “After It Happens” can be purchased in full directly from CEN at: http://www.cen-survival-kits.com/products.php?id=402.
Pray-Care-Share Inspiration:
SCRIPTURE:
“But I urge and entreat you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in perfect harmony and full agreement in what you say, and that there be no dissensions or factions or divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in your common understanding and in your opinions and judgments.” I Corinthians 1: 10
Outlook:
We depend on Your direction Lord Jesus to bring Your children into full agreement as we harmonize with One Voice to pray for, care for and share hope for today found only in You.
Song:
“Make Us One” by Carol Cymbala
Christian Emergency Network leads Christians to intelligently pray for,
sensitively care for, and strategically share the gospel with victims
involved in a national emergency.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
KATRINA - What Is God Saying?
A Cleansing Has Begun
Francis Frangipane
By now, most of us are familiar with the wide range of opinions offered to explain the prophetic significance of Hurricane Katrina. In case you missed any, here are some widely circulated perceptions, starting with two from the non-Christian world:
* It is interesting to observe the radical Islamic perception of Hurricane Katrina. Extremists believe this storm was enlisted by Allah to fight America. It is not hard to see how the Jihadists arrived at their position. Judgment, like beauty, exists in the eye of the beholder. They blame American greed for defiling their cultures and exploiting their wealth and resources. Not that I believe in Allah, but I, too, question the record profits gathered by our large oil companies. Indeed, while our gasoline prices have sky-rocketed, Exxon Mobil had $7.64 billion profit in the past quarter alone. Our government needs to investigate the oil companies. At the same time, I don't believe Katrina was sent by God because of America's sins against Muslims. The fact is, we went to war against Serbia to save Muslims in Bosnia and we liberated Afghanistan from the oppression of the Taliban, all without any reward or goal of obtaining wealth from oil.
* Next: Several European nations warned America that Katrina came to teach us a "lesson." This storm, according to them, was a consequence of our disregard concerning environmental issues. Our alleged failure has increased global warming, which in turn has increased the intensity and frequency of hurricanes. In their view, America has sown the wind and we are now reaping whirlwinds. I really don't know about hurricanes and global warming, but Rev 11:18 says that God will ultimately "destroy those who destroy the earth." We must be wise with our resources.
* A number in the pro-life community have been warning that, if America does not repent of abortion, judgments are sure to come. It is very possible this is the beginning of wrath for the murder of innocents. However, I'm not sure how the destruction of the northern Gulf coast connects with punishment for abortion.
* Some Christians here and in Israel are saying this hurricane is God's wrath on the U.S. for pressuring Israel to surrender land for peace. Even though some of my friends, who I respect, believe this, I have a hard time seeing this as true. Although I agree that pressuring Israel to give up land for peace is ill-advised and wrong, I also believe American intentions for Israel's well-being remain strong and are sincere. America remains Israel's closest friend and strongest ally.
Remember, the Lord's word in Gen 12:3 tells us that God will bless those who bless Israel and He will curse those who curse Israel (as Abraham's seed). So is America a blessing to Israel? If we asked the Jewish people themselves if America is a blessing, my opinion is that they would overwhelmingly say, yes. I believe America is working to find a means to achieve enduring peace for the Jewish nation. Disagreeing with how to move forward in this extremely difficult situation is not cursing the Israelis. Men and governments will make mistakes, but mercy-oriented intercession will ultimately bring God's will to pass for all nations. However, to state unequivocally that Hurricane Katrina is God's wrath for the Gaza evacuations -- that America is a curse to Israel -- simply is not true. Yet, time will tell.
* Others are sure that this storm hit New Orleans in particular because of the city's ever deepening descent into moral anarchy, paganism and depravity. Not that New Orleans is worse than a few other cities that come to mind, yet New Orleans has embraced wantonness and corruption on a sinister level. Please understand, in no way do I want my words to dim our aggressive prayer and compassion for this entire area; there are great Christians who have remained faithful to God and stood for righteousness for generations. Yet, it must be noted that, on the very weekend following Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans was scheduled to welcome over 100,000 homosexuals for the thirty-fourth celebration of "Southern Decadence." The argument that Katrina was divine wrath striking flagrant sin is strong. Other cities following New Orleans' path should take note: government officials have grimly announced that the entire city has been destroyed.
* My View: To understand my sense of this time of devastation, we must go back to February, 2003, when I published a message entitled, "A Nation Cleansed by the Spirit of God." In it I spoke of a fearful night encounter I had with the Lord. Quoting the article itself, the Lord warned, "I will strike America; I will strike and bring chastening." As I prayed, I suddenly became aware (and I'm quoting again the article) "of the major hurricanes and earthquakes that have hit the U.S. over the past 30 years. I was absolutely amazed at how God's protection has covered our land: how greatly minimized was the loss of life! I thought of the massive earthquakes that have struck Kobe, Japan and Turkey, and the storms that killed vast multitudes in Central America and Asia. Yet we have suffered very little loss of life. Though we have deserved God's wrath, clearly His mercy has always restrained the worst from happening. We have grown comfortable with divine protection. Yet, I wondered, would this striking be a . . . major wounding from a natural disaster?"
The striking, I felt, was not from God's hand, but the removal of His hand of protection. The article continued, "this coming wound had the potential to be massive. Its effect would penetrate the soul of the entire nation. While it may originate in something meant for evil, I felt the Lord's promise was that He would turn it toward good. The result of this measured devastation would be that multitudes would rise up and reject the unclean spirit that has manipulated our population; they would truly return to the Lord. Even the entertainment industry would begin to reject the controlling powers of perversion and hell."
The Lord warned, "I will strike . . . with chastening." To chasten is to make chaste or to purify. Thus, it is significant in my mind that the name, Katrina, means "purity" or "cleansing." My faith tells me that this hurricane, as devastating and terrible as it has been, will ultimately produce some measure of spiritual cleansing in our land. Right now, there is much heartache and suffering -- and even defiance in the gay community as they seek to still hold their "Southern Decadence" celebration. However, ultimately our nation will be genuinely closer to the Lord. Still, let us pray that no further wounds are necessary to achieve national repentance.
The Present Goal
Our task now must be to do what we can to help this afflicted area. Let us all pray and support churches in the states surrounding the hurricane zone. If you or your church can send teams to help the efforts of workers, let us do so with zeal. Multitudes have been displaced by this catastrophe and can be reached and touched by Christ at this time. If you are from the surrounding area and your church is involved reaching to evacuees, please let us know and we will try to direct volunteers or finances to your congregation.
As Christians and churches reach to the many displaced and wounded, I'm awed by the outpouring of compassion flowing to the poor, many of whom had been hopelessly trapped in the bowels of New Orleans. Many will relocate and find new beginnings; the presence of God will shepherd them into a brighter future. Yet, the cleansing of God is reaching far beyond the oppressed; it is also releasing compassion among the multitudes who have been awakened and empowered. People who have not had a chance to show their love are reaching to help the afflicted. People are praying; they are opening their wallets, hearts and homes. Mercy is flowing in America. A great cleansing has begun.
Special Note: Let us also be praying for President Bush and his staff. There has been a lot of misinformation and blaming, all of which is deepening divisions between people.
Francis Frangipane
By now, most of us are familiar with the wide range of opinions offered to explain the prophetic significance of Hurricane Katrina. In case you missed any, here are some widely circulated perceptions, starting with two from the non-Christian world:
* It is interesting to observe the radical Islamic perception of Hurricane Katrina. Extremists believe this storm was enlisted by Allah to fight America. It is not hard to see how the Jihadists arrived at their position. Judgment, like beauty, exists in the eye of the beholder. They blame American greed for defiling their cultures and exploiting their wealth and resources. Not that I believe in Allah, but I, too, question the record profits gathered by our large oil companies. Indeed, while our gasoline prices have sky-rocketed, Exxon Mobil had $7.64 billion profit in the past quarter alone. Our government needs to investigate the oil companies. At the same time, I don't believe Katrina was sent by God because of America's sins against Muslims. The fact is, we went to war against Serbia to save Muslims in Bosnia and we liberated Afghanistan from the oppression of the Taliban, all without any reward or goal of obtaining wealth from oil.
* Next: Several European nations warned America that Katrina came to teach us a "lesson." This storm, according to them, was a consequence of our disregard concerning environmental issues. Our alleged failure has increased global warming, which in turn has increased the intensity and frequency of hurricanes. In their view, America has sown the wind and we are now reaping whirlwinds. I really don't know about hurricanes and global warming, but Rev 11:18 says that God will ultimately "destroy those who destroy the earth." We must be wise with our resources.
* A number in the pro-life community have been warning that, if America does not repent of abortion, judgments are sure to come. It is very possible this is the beginning of wrath for the murder of innocents. However, I'm not sure how the destruction of the northern Gulf coast connects with punishment for abortion.
* Some Christians here and in Israel are saying this hurricane is God's wrath on the U.S. for pressuring Israel to surrender land for peace. Even though some of my friends, who I respect, believe this, I have a hard time seeing this as true. Although I agree that pressuring Israel to give up land for peace is ill-advised and wrong, I also believe American intentions for Israel's well-being remain strong and are sincere. America remains Israel's closest friend and strongest ally.
Remember, the Lord's word in Gen 12:3 tells us that God will bless those who bless Israel and He will curse those who curse Israel (as Abraham's seed). So is America a blessing to Israel? If we asked the Jewish people themselves if America is a blessing, my opinion is that they would overwhelmingly say, yes. I believe America is working to find a means to achieve enduring peace for the Jewish nation. Disagreeing with how to move forward in this extremely difficult situation is not cursing the Israelis. Men and governments will make mistakes, but mercy-oriented intercession will ultimately bring God's will to pass for all nations. However, to state unequivocally that Hurricane Katrina is God's wrath for the Gaza evacuations -- that America is a curse to Israel -- simply is not true. Yet, time will tell.
* Others are sure that this storm hit New Orleans in particular because of the city's ever deepening descent into moral anarchy, paganism and depravity. Not that New Orleans is worse than a few other cities that come to mind, yet New Orleans has embraced wantonness and corruption on a sinister level. Please understand, in no way do I want my words to dim our aggressive prayer and compassion for this entire area; there are great Christians who have remained faithful to God and stood for righteousness for generations. Yet, it must be noted that, on the very weekend following Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans was scheduled to welcome over 100,000 homosexuals for the thirty-fourth celebration of "Southern Decadence." The argument that Katrina was divine wrath striking flagrant sin is strong. Other cities following New Orleans' path should take note: government officials have grimly announced that the entire city has been destroyed.
* My View: To understand my sense of this time of devastation, we must go back to February, 2003, when I published a message entitled, "A Nation Cleansed by the Spirit of God." In it I spoke of a fearful night encounter I had with the Lord. Quoting the article itself, the Lord warned, "I will strike America; I will strike and bring chastening." As I prayed, I suddenly became aware (and I'm quoting again the article) "of the major hurricanes and earthquakes that have hit the U.S. over the past 30 years. I was absolutely amazed at how God's protection has covered our land: how greatly minimized was the loss of life! I thought of the massive earthquakes that have struck Kobe, Japan and Turkey, and the storms that killed vast multitudes in Central America and Asia. Yet we have suffered very little loss of life. Though we have deserved God's wrath, clearly His mercy has always restrained the worst from happening. We have grown comfortable with divine protection. Yet, I wondered, would this striking be a . . . major wounding from a natural disaster?"
The striking, I felt, was not from God's hand, but the removal of His hand of protection. The article continued, "this coming wound had the potential to be massive. Its effect would penetrate the soul of the entire nation. While it may originate in something meant for evil, I felt the Lord's promise was that He would turn it toward good. The result of this measured devastation would be that multitudes would rise up and reject the unclean spirit that has manipulated our population; they would truly return to the Lord. Even the entertainment industry would begin to reject the controlling powers of perversion and hell."
The Lord warned, "I will strike . . . with chastening." To chasten is to make chaste or to purify. Thus, it is significant in my mind that the name, Katrina, means "purity" or "cleansing." My faith tells me that this hurricane, as devastating and terrible as it has been, will ultimately produce some measure of spiritual cleansing in our land. Right now, there is much heartache and suffering -- and even defiance in the gay community as they seek to still hold their "Southern Decadence" celebration. However, ultimately our nation will be genuinely closer to the Lord. Still, let us pray that no further wounds are necessary to achieve national repentance.
The Present Goal
Our task now must be to do what we can to help this afflicted area. Let us all pray and support churches in the states surrounding the hurricane zone. If you or your church can send teams to help the efforts of workers, let us do so with zeal. Multitudes have been displaced by this catastrophe and can be reached and touched by Christ at this time. If you are from the surrounding area and your church is involved reaching to evacuees, please let us know and we will try to direct volunteers or finances to your congregation.
As Christians and churches reach to the many displaced and wounded, I'm awed by the outpouring of compassion flowing to the poor, many of whom had been hopelessly trapped in the bowels of New Orleans. Many will relocate and find new beginnings; the presence of God will shepherd them into a brighter future. Yet, the cleansing of God is reaching far beyond the oppressed; it is also releasing compassion among the multitudes who have been awakened and empowered. People who have not had a chance to show their love are reaching to help the afflicted. People are praying; they are opening their wallets, hearts and homes. Mercy is flowing in America. A great cleansing has begun.
Special Note: Let us also be praying for President Bush and his staff. There has been a lot of misinformation and blaming, all of which is deepening divisions between people.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
KATRINA - Day of Prayer ... Now Share
__________________________________________________
C H R I S T I A N E M E R G E N C Y N E T W O R K™
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
After Day of Prayer, Time to Prepare to Share
Christians urged to take join together to share the hope found in Jesus
(CEN, Sept. 7, 2005) – Christian Emergency Network (CEN) CEO Mary Marr is encouraging Christians to join with millions of Christians around the United States to share the hope found in Jesus to victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Share
Marr explained, “The most important steps Christians can take at this time is to share the hope found only in Christ through a balanced message of prayer-care-share for the victims of Katrina and those assisting them.”
She noted, “At noon yesterday, Christians all over America, as individuals, in churches and with the assistance of Christian media, joined in a concert of prayer. A critical next step for Christians is to monitor events and stay connected with Christian ministries and media such as CEN (http://www.christianemergencynetwork.org), so that will know how to respond appropriately, effectively and in a manner that shares the hope of Jesus.”
Care
Marr continued, “CEN is endorsing the concept of churches ‘adopting’ families, but caution Christians to be patient as those Christian organizations who are seasoned in the field of relief and long term response are currently setting into place a responsible, safe, and effective structure under secure authority.” CEN encourages organizations to work together with Christian organizations such as the Salvation Army and other faith-based groups with a history of relief response and are designated by federal authorities. “While we all want to help, sometimes waiting upon the Lord for clear direction, and coming alongside proven Christian organizations is the best stewardship of our time and resources,” said Marr. She continued, “We caution Christians to be very discerning regarding sheltering requests, as it is easy to be drawn in emotionally by organizations that, perhaps well-meaning, are not equipped or experienced in the rescue, relief and redevelopment efforts needed now and in the future.” She added, “And, of course, there is always the danger of swindlers exploiting people by misrepresenting themselves in wake of such a disaster. CEN has carefully reviewed the groups listed on our website meeting the strictest criteria to allow us to provide dependable timely and accurate information.”
Noting that cash remains the most critical need at this time, Marr recommended that Christians prioritize their giving. “We first encourage Christians to give through their local church, so long as they can verify with confidence that their denomination is equipped and experienced to respond, and is doing so. Next, we recommend donations be made to first responders, like the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army is uniquely equipped to asses and address the immediate needs of individuals and families, such as providing food, shelter, clothing and Christian counseling,” said Marr. Also, CEN partners providing support for immediate and long term needs are Operation Blessing, Convoy of Hope, Lutheran Disaster Services, Hope Force, BGEA Rapid Response Team, Baptist Men, Nazarene Disaster Relief and many others listed on our CEN website. All are in need of your assistance.
“CEN also relies upon the generous support of donors to help carry forth a united Christian message and response of prayer-care-share,” noted Marr. She continued, “Those, who after prayerful consideration, are willing to assist financially, can help carry forth CEN’s coordinated, careful and collaborative effort to keep Christians apprised of ongoing responses by Christians in times such as these.” Marr pointed out that donations made through CEN go to organizations committed to sharing the Gospel as they deliver aid. “Ninety percent of a person’s donation is distributed directly to CEN organizations providing direct high impact assistance to the most critical point of need for Hurricane Katrina victims. CEN supports organizations that are committed to combining prayer, caring relief efforts while sharing the hope of Jesus Christ through this crisis.”
Prayer
On Tuesday, Marr joined with other Christian leaders in calling upon Christians to pray at noon EDT, and to a massive day-long prayer conference call. Simultaneously, many media outlets led in prayer. CEN supports the efforts of the National Prayer Committee. Marr said, “Christians need to take the lead in petitioning our Lord Jesus Christ for his undeserved favor to become the beacons of hope to the hopeless.”
Other resources:
To read the latest CEN reports coming into the Command Center, visit, http://www.centoday.com/.
Pastors:
CEN is providing a courtesy copy of the sermon series “While It Happens” on the Sermon Central website. The complete sermon series, along with a four-part series entitled “Before It Happens” and another four-part series entitled “After It Happens” can be purchased in full directly from CEN at: http://www.cen-survival-kits.com/products.php?id=402.
Pray-Care-Share Inspiration:
Scripture:
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand]” Psalm 91:1.
Outlook:
We look to You, Lord God Almighty; we seek You Above All
Song:
“Above All” by Michael W. Smith
Christian Emergency Network leads Christians to intelligently pray for, sensitively care for, and strategically share the gospel with victims involved in a national emergency.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
KATRINA - Mother Nature vs. Providence
“Divine Providence and Hurricane Katrina”
John H. Armstrong
It only takes a hurricane, a tsunami, or an earthquake, to bring out the myriad of ways that people, especially Christians, seek to make sense of natural disasters. Only a week ago Hurricane Katrina struck the gulf coast of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Well-meaning believers are now seeking to "sort out" how and where God’s will fits into this catastrophe.
It requires considerable thought on the part of reflective Christians to avoid the nonsense often spoken in such times. Besides blaming the devil, as if he had control over nature (some remind you that “He [Satan] is the prince of the power of the air”), we blame almost everything else possible, including government. Some even blame the gods, while some Christians suggest that God really did order the storm and thus destroy the people he had pre-selected to kill. Since my own confessional framework is that of the Reformed creeds, I find myself once again wishing that some of my Reformed brothers and sisters would state the nuances of our historic position correcly. I fear we may again miss the major point in this and drive more people away from the positive glories of our solid biblical thought, which is deeply rooted in mystery.
Several things need to be kept in view when we speak about God and his relationship to tragic storms. First, keep in mind that divine providence is a term that did not arise from precise use within the Bible itself. The term comes from Stoic philosophy. In philosophical terms divine providence was equal to divine foreknowledge. In theology it eventually addressed three broad themes: (1) divine preservation, or preservation; (2) divine governance, or gubernatio; and, (3) divine concurrence, or co-operation, by which both the divine and human are involved in an action.
Read more at:
http://mail.4wdns.com/view.html?id=55f71c75804dfb019c3d3f6b4e80ea7e&folder=inbox&messageindex=0&messageid=200509061315067D2F-00000040.tmp&count=32
John H. Armstrong
It only takes a hurricane, a tsunami, or an earthquake, to bring out the myriad of ways that people, especially Christians, seek to make sense of natural disasters. Only a week ago Hurricane Katrina struck the gulf coast of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Well-meaning believers are now seeking to "sort out" how and where God’s will fits into this catastrophe.
It requires considerable thought on the part of reflective Christians to avoid the nonsense often spoken in such times. Besides blaming the devil, as if he had control over nature (some remind you that “He [Satan] is the prince of the power of the air”), we blame almost everything else possible, including government. Some even blame the gods, while some Christians suggest that God really did order the storm and thus destroy the people he had pre-selected to kill. Since my own confessional framework is that of the Reformed creeds, I find myself once again wishing that some of my Reformed brothers and sisters would state the nuances of our historic position correcly. I fear we may again miss the major point in this and drive more people away from the positive glories of our solid biblical thought, which is deeply rooted in mystery.
Several things need to be kept in view when we speak about God and his relationship to tragic storms. First, keep in mind that divine providence is a term that did not arise from precise use within the Bible itself. The term comes from Stoic philosophy. In philosophical terms divine providence was equal to divine foreknowledge. In theology it eventually addressed three broad themes: (1) divine preservation, or preservation; (2) divine governance, or gubernatio; and, (3) divine concurrence, or co-operation, by which both the divine and human are involved in an action.
Read more at:
http://mail.4wdns.com/view.html?id=55f71c75804dfb019c3d3f6b4e80ea7e&folder=inbox&messageindex=0&messageid=200509061315067D2F-00000040.tmp&count=32
KATRINA - Report from Florida Prayer Network
From: Pam Olsen, President, Florida Prayer Network
Purpose Of FPN: Florida Prayer Network seeks to unite individuals, churches, and ministries to form a prayer network to seek God for the healing of our nation; to pray for revival: and to pray for the strengthening of families throughout Florida and our country. Through a united effort of prayer, our state and nation can be changed! "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." James 5:16.
Dear Watchmen:
We have all been praying for the victims of Hurricane Katrina this past week and we need to continue to pray as people are rescued and relocated. We are thankful that after several days of prayer and waiting the granddaughter of one of our Florida Prayer Center's prayer warriors was located in Mississippi unharmed. We thank God for saving her! We are still trying to locate our Mississippi State Coordinator (anyone in MS who receives this alert please call us if you know Joan Simpson (from Ocean Springs, MS).
Below are prayer points and Christian organizations we respect and have worked with that you might want to consider giving a donation to help in their relief efforts. We must not forget that prayer and action go hand in hand. Please pray and volunteer to help in some way.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Please keep Louisiana (especially New Orleans), Mississippi and Alabama (parts of Florida were effected as well) in your prayers. Ask the Lord to have mercy on the people in these states.
2. Pray for the people who are still stranded that they will be rescued quickly.
3. Pray for the families that have been relocated to shelters throughout the country. Their whole lives have been affected. Pray for material needs to be met as well as spiritual needs. Pray as well for those who are returning home to try to salvage what is left and move forward.
4. Pray for the officials who are working throughout the areas to have great wisdom as to how to deal with all the needs. Pray for the police, fire and other rescue workers, as well as the National Guard troops, Coast Guard and other military and responders that have been set to the disaster areas.
5. Ask the Lord to grant wisdom to the engineers and all those working to repair the levees in New Orleans.
6. Pray for President Bush, the Head of FEMA, the Head of Homeland Security, the Governors of the Gulf States, mayors and city, county, and parish officials that they would have wisdom as they try to restore order and meet the needs of those affected.
7. Pray against the spirit of lawlessness that has griped New Orleans with looting and violence. Pray for restored order and peace.
8. Pray for relief agencies: Red Cross, Samaritans Purse, Somebody Cares America, churches and other agencies that volunteers and finances are available to get the job done. Pray for the hungry and homeless to find help.
9. Pray that their would not be an outbreak of dieses such as typhoid and cholera.
10. Pray that there are NO other hurricanes that hit our Nation during this hurricane season and pray against any possible terrorists attacks.
These are a few of the Christian Relief agencies that we recommend that will minister to the physical needs as well as the spiritual needs:
1. Somebody Cares America: Doug Stringer, President
Mailing Address:
PO Box 570007
Houston, Texas 77257-0007
Phone: 713.621.1498
http://www.somebodycares.org
2. Samaritan's Purse: Franklin Graham, President
Mailing address:
P. O. Box 3000
Boone, NC 28607
Phone: 828 262-1980
On line donations: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/Giving_Form_SSL.asp
3. North American Missions Board Disaster Relief Effort
North American Mission Board
P.O. Box 116543
Atlanta, GA 30368-6543
Make checks payable to the North American
Board (NAMB) and put "disaster relief" in the
memo line.
They are also coordinating prayer efforts across the nation to pray for and minister to the needs of the people affected by Hurricane Katrina. http://www.namb.net
4. Faith Family Church
Sr. Pastor Gordon Atwell, National Day of Prayer State Coordinator, is helping with relief efforts in Watson at his church and is working with other churches in the area to feed and clothe evacuees
Mailing address:
Faith Family Church
34401 Hwy 16
Watson, LA 70706
The President Has Called On All Americans To Help Those In Need As A Result Of Katrina.
Rebuilding the Gulf Coast will take time – and the resources of the American people and the Federal government will ensure that New Orleans will once again be a great city. American companies and individuals have already combined to donate nearly $200 million for relief and recovery. The President also announced a nationwide charitable effort led by former President Bush and former President Clinton to aid the Gulf Coast victims of Hurricane Katrina through the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund. Americans who wish to contribute can do so by contacting charities that are assisting with hurricane relief. For a listing of relief organizations, visit www.usafreedomcorps.gov. (not all of these agencies will minister to the spiritual needs of the people, but they will meet the physical needs)
Join Greater Calling to pray by phone for 5 minutes or 5 hours on September 6th which has been designated as a National Day of Prayer for the Hurricane victims:
Greater Calling will be supporting the National Day of Prayer on September 6 by offering non-stop conference call prayer for 15 hours. You can participate in the call to pray right from your own home or cell phone. Prayer Leaders will be hosting hundreds of callers in unified prayer for the victims of the hurricane and for the relief workers. You can join in by calling anytime between the hours of 8:00 AM Central Time (6 AM Pacific, 9 AM Eastern) and 11 PM Central Time (9 PM Pacific and 12 AM Eastern).
At the top of the hour and the half-hour, leaders will be reciting a specific prayer for the victims of this disaster, after which they will open the lines for live, interactive prayer. You can join for five minutes or stay on the line for hours…or even call in several times throughout the day. You choose what works best for you.
Each conference access code can accommodate 96 callers so if you get a busy signal, just dial back in with the same number, but try a different access code listed below. There is no charge for this service, but you may incur a long distance expense so we suggest you use the cheapest way you have to connect (cell phones do not charge a long distance fee and many phone company plans have unlimited long distance plans). You may also want to host a small group at your home and use a speaker phone to join a group of people to the call. Please let others know about this by giving out the number and pass code.
Number to Dial:
1-563-843-7429
Access Code:
7729# (PRAY#)
77291# (PRAY1#)
77292# (PRAY2#)
77293# (PRAY3#)
http://www.greatercalling.org/nationaldayofprayer.htm
UPDATE ON DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SUPPORT TO HURRICANE KATRINA RELIEF EFFORTS
This is an update I received this afternoon from the White House on Department of Defense support to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts as of 0600 from the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense.
Please keep these commanders and their efforts in prayers:
DoD Command and Control
NORTHCOM Commander: ADM Tim Keating, Colorado Springs, CO
JTF Katrina Commander: LTG Russel Honore, Camp Shelby, MS
JFCOM Standing HQ Commander: MajGen Jon Gallinetti, Baton Rouge, LA
JFT LA National Guard Commander: MG Bennett Landreneau, New Orleans, LA
JFT MS National Guard Commander: MG Harold Cross, Camp Shelby, MS
DoD Operational Highlights
49,098 Active Duty and National Guard personnel are on station
38,146 members of the National Guard from 42 states are assigned to relief operations in LA and MS, representing 42 states
National Guard units in 17 states on standby to assist
10,952 Active Duty personnel are on the ground providing support
12 US Naval ships and 3,255 Navy personnel are off the coast of LA and MS providing support
US Naval preventive medicine teams are en route
4,000 US Coast Guard personnel also providing support
374 DoD, US Coast Guard, and National Guard helicopters; and 76 DoD and National Guard fixed wing aircraft are assisting
963 total Search and Rescue, evacuation, and supply delivery missions have been flown by DoD - 537 in the past 24 hours.
15,165 personnel and 4,613 tons of relief supplies moved in LA and MS
75,000 people have been evacuated from the disaster area as of September 4
Air medical evacuation and Search and Rescue operations in New Orleans are now focused on the Algiers section of New Orleans where approximately 3,000 individuals need to be evacuated
Total DoD rescues, evacuations and patient treatments in New Orleans:
8,000+ patients transported
2,000+ people rescued
5,000+ patients treated
Maritime units supplied 78,000 gallons of fuel to hospitals, law enforcement, National Guard, and other critical government services
21 million Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) ordered by FEMA - 5.1 million received
The US Army Corps of Engineers performing de-watering operations in New Orleans with pumps and controlled levee breaches.
Two National Guard C-130 firefighting aircraft were diverted from wildland fire fighting in the northwestern United States to Pensacola, Fla., to support New Orleans fire fighting operations
Seven helicopters also preparing to conduct fire fighting operations in New Orleans
Secretary of Transportation is requesting Secretary of Defense concurrence to utilize four of the maritime Ready Reserve Fleet ships as temporary housing for relief workers
Received a request from FEMA for communications support for the City of New Orleans Police Department to facilitate communications and enhance security and law enforcement
Medical
745 hospital beds available at New Orleans International Airport: (25), USS Bataan (360) and USS Iwo Jima (360) - 500 more beds en route to New Orleans
Air Force will increase capability and provide an 85 bed mobile hospital unit and air logistics support at Alexandria Airport, currently a staging area for rescue operations
10 federal medical shelters (250 beds each) established at DoD installations: Elgin AFB, Fla. (2); Fort Polk, La. (4); and Meridian Naval Air Station, Mississippi (4)
Total patients treated by DoD: 5,070
Links: (bio of ASD McHale) http://www.defenselink.mil/bios/asdhd_bio.html
(note: including in the update but not the text of this message is a chart showing DoD assets on station.
Thank you for being watchmen on the wall and standing in prayer for America and for those in need across the Gulf Coast! Don't grow weary, stay alert! Join us in prayer at the Florida Prayer Center in Tallahassee for prayer for the people affected by Hurricane Katrina www.floridaprayercenter.org for updated schedule.
Stand Strong Florida...on your knees!
Florida Prayer Network can be reached at fpn@floridaprayer.org or you can call (850) 906-9170. Please visit our WEB SITE: www.floridaprayer.org . You can write us at FPN, P.O.Box 14017 Tallahassee, FL. 32317. Pam Olsen, FPN's President is the National Area Leader of the Southeast Region of the United States for the National Day of Prayer Task Force. Please contact us if you have a prayer event or request that effect the state or nation. Please pass this alert on to others in your prayer groups and churches. If you would like to be removed from this alert list please contact us. Please let us know how we can serve you in your prayer efforts. FPN is a 501 (C) (3) ministry, donations are tax deductible and can be sent to the above address. Please pray for our efforts to touch Florida for Jesus Christ.
Join us in prayer at the Florida Prayer Center, check www.floridaprayercenter.org for updated schedule.
Sincerely and Prayerfully in Christ,
Pam Olsen, President, Florida Prayer Network
Florida Prayer Network
P.O. Box 14017 - Tallahassee, FL - 32317
850-906-9170 - www.floridaprayer.org
Copyright © 2005 Florida Prayer Network, Inc. - Designed by SevenPoint Productions
Purpose Of FPN: Florida Prayer Network seeks to unite individuals, churches, and ministries to form a prayer network to seek God for the healing of our nation; to pray for revival: and to pray for the strengthening of families throughout Florida and our country. Through a united effort of prayer, our state and nation can be changed! "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." James 5:16.
Dear Watchmen:
We have all been praying for the victims of Hurricane Katrina this past week and we need to continue to pray as people are rescued and relocated. We are thankful that after several days of prayer and waiting the granddaughter of one of our Florida Prayer Center's prayer warriors was located in Mississippi unharmed. We thank God for saving her! We are still trying to locate our Mississippi State Coordinator (anyone in MS who receives this alert please call us if you know Joan Simpson (from Ocean Springs, MS).
Below are prayer points and Christian organizations we respect and have worked with that you might want to consider giving a donation to help in their relief efforts. We must not forget that prayer and action go hand in hand. Please pray and volunteer to help in some way.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Please keep Louisiana (especially New Orleans), Mississippi and Alabama (parts of Florida were effected as well) in your prayers. Ask the Lord to have mercy on the people in these states.
2. Pray for the people who are still stranded that they will be rescued quickly.
3. Pray for the families that have been relocated to shelters throughout the country. Their whole lives have been affected. Pray for material needs to be met as well as spiritual needs. Pray as well for those who are returning home to try to salvage what is left and move forward.
4. Pray for the officials who are working throughout the areas to have great wisdom as to how to deal with all the needs. Pray for the police, fire and other rescue workers, as well as the National Guard troops, Coast Guard and other military and responders that have been set to the disaster areas.
5. Ask the Lord to grant wisdom to the engineers and all those working to repair the levees in New Orleans.
6. Pray for President Bush, the Head of FEMA, the Head of Homeland Security, the Governors of the Gulf States, mayors and city, county, and parish officials that they would have wisdom as they try to restore order and meet the needs of those affected.
7. Pray against the spirit of lawlessness that has griped New Orleans with looting and violence. Pray for restored order and peace.
8. Pray for relief agencies: Red Cross, Samaritans Purse, Somebody Cares America, churches and other agencies that volunteers and finances are available to get the job done. Pray for the hungry and homeless to find help.
9. Pray that their would not be an outbreak of dieses such as typhoid and cholera.
10. Pray that there are NO other hurricanes that hit our Nation during this hurricane season and pray against any possible terrorists attacks.
These are a few of the Christian Relief agencies that we recommend that will minister to the physical needs as well as the spiritual needs:
1. Somebody Cares America: Doug Stringer, President
Mailing Address:
PO Box 570007
Houston, Texas 77257-0007
Phone: 713.621.1498
http://www.somebodycares.org
2. Samaritan's Purse: Franklin Graham, President
Mailing address:
P. O. Box 3000
Boone, NC 28607
Phone: 828 262-1980
On line donations: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/Giving_Form_SSL.asp
3. North American Missions Board Disaster Relief Effort
North American Mission Board
P.O. Box 116543
Atlanta, GA 30368-6543
Make checks payable to the North American
Board (NAMB) and put "disaster relief" in the
memo line.
They are also coordinating prayer efforts across the nation to pray for and minister to the needs of the people affected by Hurricane Katrina. http://www.namb.net
4. Faith Family Church
Sr. Pastor Gordon Atwell, National Day of Prayer State Coordinator, is helping with relief efforts in Watson at his church and is working with other churches in the area to feed and clothe evacuees
Mailing address:
Faith Family Church
34401 Hwy 16
Watson, LA 70706
The President Has Called On All Americans To Help Those In Need As A Result Of Katrina.
Rebuilding the Gulf Coast will take time – and the resources of the American people and the Federal government will ensure that New Orleans will once again be a great city. American companies and individuals have already combined to donate nearly $200 million for relief and recovery. The President also announced a nationwide charitable effort led by former President Bush and former President Clinton to aid the Gulf Coast victims of Hurricane Katrina through the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund. Americans who wish to contribute can do so by contacting charities that are assisting with hurricane relief. For a listing of relief organizations, visit www.usafreedomcorps.gov. (not all of these agencies will minister to the spiritual needs of the people, but they will meet the physical needs)
Join Greater Calling to pray by phone for 5 minutes or 5 hours on September 6th which has been designated as a National Day of Prayer for the Hurricane victims:
Greater Calling will be supporting the National Day of Prayer on September 6 by offering non-stop conference call prayer for 15 hours. You can participate in the call to pray right from your own home or cell phone. Prayer Leaders will be hosting hundreds of callers in unified prayer for the victims of the hurricane and for the relief workers. You can join in by calling anytime between the hours of 8:00 AM Central Time (6 AM Pacific, 9 AM Eastern) and 11 PM Central Time (9 PM Pacific and 12 AM Eastern).
At the top of the hour and the half-hour, leaders will be reciting a specific prayer for the victims of this disaster, after which they will open the lines for live, interactive prayer. You can join for five minutes or stay on the line for hours…or even call in several times throughout the day. You choose what works best for you.
Each conference access code can accommodate 96 callers so if you get a busy signal, just dial back in with the same number, but try a different access code listed below. There is no charge for this service, but you may incur a long distance expense so we suggest you use the cheapest way you have to connect (cell phones do not charge a long distance fee and many phone company plans have unlimited long distance plans). You may also want to host a small group at your home and use a speaker phone to join a group of people to the call. Please let others know about this by giving out the number and pass code.
Number to Dial:
1-563-843-7429
Access Code:
7729# (PRAY#)
77291# (PRAY1#)
77292# (PRAY2#)
77293# (PRAY3#)
http://www.greatercalling.org/nationaldayofprayer.htm
UPDATE ON DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SUPPORT TO HURRICANE KATRINA RELIEF EFFORTS
This is an update I received this afternoon from the White House on Department of Defense support to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts as of 0600 from the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense.
Please keep these commanders and their efforts in prayers:
DoD Command and Control
NORTHCOM Commander: ADM Tim Keating, Colorado Springs, CO
JTF Katrina Commander: LTG Russel Honore, Camp Shelby, MS
JFCOM Standing HQ Commander: MajGen Jon Gallinetti, Baton Rouge, LA
JFT LA National Guard Commander: MG Bennett Landreneau, New Orleans, LA
JFT MS National Guard Commander: MG Harold Cross, Camp Shelby, MS
DoD Operational Highlights
49,098 Active Duty and National Guard personnel are on station
38,146 members of the National Guard from 42 states are assigned to relief operations in LA and MS, representing 42 states
National Guard units in 17 states on standby to assist
10,952 Active Duty personnel are on the ground providing support
12 US Naval ships and 3,255 Navy personnel are off the coast of LA and MS providing support
US Naval preventive medicine teams are en route
4,000 US Coast Guard personnel also providing support
374 DoD, US Coast Guard, and National Guard helicopters; and 76 DoD and National Guard fixed wing aircraft are assisting
963 total Search and Rescue, evacuation, and supply delivery missions have been flown by DoD - 537 in the past 24 hours.
15,165 personnel and 4,613 tons of relief supplies moved in LA and MS
75,000 people have been evacuated from the disaster area as of September 4
Air medical evacuation and Search and Rescue operations in New Orleans are now focused on the Algiers section of New Orleans where approximately 3,000 individuals need to be evacuated
Total DoD rescues, evacuations and patient treatments in New Orleans:
8,000+ patients transported
2,000+ people rescued
5,000+ patients treated
Maritime units supplied 78,000 gallons of fuel to hospitals, law enforcement, National Guard, and other critical government services
21 million Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) ordered by FEMA - 5.1 million received
The US Army Corps of Engineers performing de-watering operations in New Orleans with pumps and controlled levee breaches.
Two National Guard C-130 firefighting aircraft were diverted from wildland fire fighting in the northwestern United States to Pensacola, Fla., to support New Orleans fire fighting operations
Seven helicopters also preparing to conduct fire fighting operations in New Orleans
Secretary of Transportation is requesting Secretary of Defense concurrence to utilize four of the maritime Ready Reserve Fleet ships as temporary housing for relief workers
Received a request from FEMA for communications support for the City of New Orleans Police Department to facilitate communications and enhance security and law enforcement
Medical
745 hospital beds available at New Orleans International Airport: (25), USS Bataan (360) and USS Iwo Jima (360) - 500 more beds en route to New Orleans
Air Force will increase capability and provide an 85 bed mobile hospital unit and air logistics support at Alexandria Airport, currently a staging area for rescue operations
10 federal medical shelters (250 beds each) established at DoD installations: Elgin AFB, Fla. (2); Fort Polk, La. (4); and Meridian Naval Air Station, Mississippi (4)
Total patients treated by DoD: 5,070
Links: (bio of ASD McHale) http://www.defenselink.mil/bios/asdhd_bio.html
(note: including in the update but not the text of this message is a chart showing DoD assets on station.
Thank you for being watchmen on the wall and standing in prayer for America and for those in need across the Gulf Coast! Don't grow weary, stay alert! Join us in prayer at the Florida Prayer Center in Tallahassee for prayer for the people affected by Hurricane Katrina www.floridaprayercenter.org for updated schedule.
Stand Strong Florida...on your knees!
Florida Prayer Network can be reached at fpn@floridaprayer.org or you can call (850) 906-9170. Please visit our WEB SITE: www.floridaprayer.org . You can write us at FPN, P.O.Box 14017 Tallahassee, FL. 32317. Pam Olsen, FPN's President is the National Area Leader of the Southeast Region of the United States for the National Day of Prayer Task Force. Please contact us if you have a prayer event or request that effect the state or nation. Please pass this alert on to others in your prayer groups and churches. If you would like to be removed from this alert list please contact us. Please let us know how we can serve you in your prayer efforts. FPN is a 501 (C) (3) ministry, donations are tax deductible and can be sent to the above address. Please pray for our efforts to touch Florida for Jesus Christ.
Join us in prayer at the Florida Prayer Center, check www.floridaprayercenter.org for updated schedule.
Sincerely and Prayerfully in Christ,
Pam Olsen, President, Florida Prayer Network
Florida Prayer Network
P.O. Box 14017 - Tallahassee, FL - 32317
850-906-9170 - www.floridaprayer.org
Copyright © 2005 Florida Prayer Network, Inc. - Designed by SevenPoint Productions
Monday, September 05, 2005
KATRINA - Churches Respond
CHURCHES THROUGHOUT SOUTH OPEN DOORS TO EVACUEES
Monday, September 5, 2005
By Mark Ellis, Senior Correspondent, ASSIST News Service
PO Box 2126, Garden Grove, CA 92842-2126 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net ** E-mail: danjuma1@aol.com
MANSFIELD, LOUISIANA (ANS) -- As former residents of New Orleans and the Gulf face a future full of uncertainties, Christians throughout the South˜a thousand points of light˜have already opened their homes and are caring for evacuees.
"Life as we knew it just a few days ago will never be the same,‰ says Suzanne Williams, a member of Living Word Church in Mansfield. Their church‚s former youth building is now home to 13 members of the Thompson family spanning three generations. "These are wonderful people, who know they‚re blessed to be alive," she says. "We're preparing to take in 50 more people."
Mansfield, once a fairly prosperous town in the northwest corner of Louisiana, is somewhat of an economic basket case today. It shrunk from a population of 16,000 to just 4,500 after several industries shut their doors a few years ago. The jobs were exported overseas.
It lies in the heart of a broad swath of territory that served as a landing pad for refugees fleeing one of the worst disasters in American history. „All the people that did evacuate and found hotels and motels are now faced with no place to go,‰ Williams says. "They are looking for relief in shelters that are springing up everywhere˜mostly in churches,‰ she says.
"Now is the time to put love in action," she adds.
Living Word is a church of about 200, typical of the small churches of rural Louisiana. The church already spent $1000 for food, clothing and supplies to take care of the Thompson family in the first four days. They estimate it will take thousands˜perhaps hundreds of thousands of dollars˜to house 50 more people for 6-15 months.
Pastor Glenn Rogers, of Living Word, is overseeing the relief effort among nine other churches in Mansfield. „We‚re overwhelmed with the responsibility right now,‰ Rogers says. There are 100,000 evacuees in the Shreveport area, about 30 miles north of Mansfield, he says. The overflow is filtering into smaller communities along the interstate highway like Mansfield.
"They run out of gas and don‚t know where to go," he says.
The dimensions of the evacuation are historically unprecedented. Pastor Rogers cites 1.3 million in the process of being relocated from the greater New Orleans area, and possibly as many as 3 million from the entire region. „We have over 1500 people camping at one park near us," he says.
After the crisis hit, members of the church signed their names to a volunteer list to cook meals, do laundry, run errands, and haul supplies for new arrivals. Many also signed up to donate extra sheets and blankets, pillows, towels, clothes, baby formula and many other items on a list that's growing rapidly.
A dentist in the church volunteered to do root canals and crowns at no charge for three evacuees in need of attention. Since the church lacks adequate restroom and shower facilities, evacuees are going into members‚ homes to get cleaned up.
"This is a tremendous wake-up call for the church,‰ Pastor Rogers says. "I won't say God caused this," he says. "It could be the judgment of God because there‚s been enough sin in our lives. I think God is also dealing with us about our lack of compassion for our fellow man."
After the 9-11 attack, attendance at Living Word Church swelled for several Sundays and a few people found salvation in Christ. "It only lasted about a month, but now our whole church is turned upside down and people are afraid about the future," Pastor Rogers observes. "We're working around the clock, and we know things won't be the same for a good while."
"We‚re sandwiched between Matthew 22 and Matthew 28,‰ Pastor Rogers says. "God has been breaking my heart and showing me I had spiritual pride in my life," he says. "He wants to squeeze that out of me and restore a genuine love for Him and for others."
Pastor Rogers cancelled his camp meeting budget of several thousand dollars two days ago, and diverted the funds to the church's relief effort. "Our ministry is what we're doing right now,‰ he says, „not just having another meeting."
Mark Ellis is a Senior Correspondent for ASSIST News Service. He is also an assistant pastor in Laguna Beach, CA. Contact Ellis at marsalis@fea.net
** You may republish this story with proper attribution.
Monday, September 5, 2005
By Mark Ellis, Senior Correspondent, ASSIST News Service
PO Box 2126, Garden Grove, CA 92842-2126 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net ** E-mail: danjuma1@aol.com
MANSFIELD, LOUISIANA (ANS) -- As former residents of New Orleans and the Gulf face a future full of uncertainties, Christians throughout the South˜a thousand points of light˜have already opened their homes and are caring for evacuees.
"Life as we knew it just a few days ago will never be the same,‰ says Suzanne Williams, a member of Living Word Church in Mansfield. Their church‚s former youth building is now home to 13 members of the Thompson family spanning three generations. "These are wonderful people, who know they‚re blessed to be alive," she says. "We're preparing to take in 50 more people."
Mansfield, once a fairly prosperous town in the northwest corner of Louisiana, is somewhat of an economic basket case today. It shrunk from a population of 16,000 to just 4,500 after several industries shut their doors a few years ago. The jobs were exported overseas.
It lies in the heart of a broad swath of territory that served as a landing pad for refugees fleeing one of the worst disasters in American history. „All the people that did evacuate and found hotels and motels are now faced with no place to go,‰ Williams says. "They are looking for relief in shelters that are springing up everywhere˜mostly in churches,‰ she says.
"Now is the time to put love in action," she adds.
Living Word is a church of about 200, typical of the small churches of rural Louisiana. The church already spent $1000 for food, clothing and supplies to take care of the Thompson family in the first four days. They estimate it will take thousands˜perhaps hundreds of thousands of dollars˜to house 50 more people for 6-15 months.
Pastor Glenn Rogers, of Living Word, is overseeing the relief effort among nine other churches in Mansfield. „We‚re overwhelmed with the responsibility right now,‰ Rogers says. There are 100,000 evacuees in the Shreveport area, about 30 miles north of Mansfield, he says. The overflow is filtering into smaller communities along the interstate highway like Mansfield.
"They run out of gas and don‚t know where to go," he says.
The dimensions of the evacuation are historically unprecedented. Pastor Rogers cites 1.3 million in the process of being relocated from the greater New Orleans area, and possibly as many as 3 million from the entire region. „We have over 1500 people camping at one park near us," he says.
After the crisis hit, members of the church signed their names to a volunteer list to cook meals, do laundry, run errands, and haul supplies for new arrivals. Many also signed up to donate extra sheets and blankets, pillows, towels, clothes, baby formula and many other items on a list that's growing rapidly.
A dentist in the church volunteered to do root canals and crowns at no charge for three evacuees in need of attention. Since the church lacks adequate restroom and shower facilities, evacuees are going into members‚ homes to get cleaned up.
"This is a tremendous wake-up call for the church,‰ Pastor Rogers says. "I won't say God caused this," he says. "It could be the judgment of God because there‚s been enough sin in our lives. I think God is also dealing with us about our lack of compassion for our fellow man."
After the 9-11 attack, attendance at Living Word Church swelled for several Sundays and a few people found salvation in Christ. "It only lasted about a month, but now our whole church is turned upside down and people are afraid about the future," Pastor Rogers observes. "We're working around the clock, and we know things won't be the same for a good while."
"We‚re sandwiched between Matthew 22 and Matthew 28,‰ Pastor Rogers says. "God has been breaking my heart and showing me I had spiritual pride in my life," he says. "He wants to squeeze that out of me and restore a genuine love for Him and for others."
Pastor Rogers cancelled his camp meeting budget of several thousand dollars two days ago, and diverted the funds to the church's relief effort. "Our ministry is what we're doing right now,‰ he says, „not just having another meeting."
Mark Ellis is a Senior Correspondent for ASSIST News Service. He is also an assistant pastor in Laguna Beach, CA. Contact Ellis at marsalis@fea.net
** You may republish this story with proper attribution.
KATRINA - Prayer Leaders Needed
Prayer Leaders Needed for National Prayer Day for Katrina
Volunteer to be a Prayer Leader September 2005
Christians Called to Make Prayer a Priority
The Christian Emergency Network has announced that September 6th has been designated as a national day of prayer for the victims of the recent hurricane disaster. Greater Calling will be supporting this effort by providing continual conference call prayer throughout the day. In order to accommodate as many callers as possible, we need volunteers to give an hour (or more) of their time to act as the leaders for these calls. If you have a telephone and a heart for prayer, consider signing up as a prayer leader by clicking on the link below. You will be provided with training on how to host a call and you will receive a written guide to hosting a call. Thank you for your willingness to unite the nation in prayer during this important time.
Pray Over The Phone
By simply dialing an 800 number, you can join with others from all over the world to pray during our regularly scheduled Prayer Calls. These calls are FREE and are hosted by Greater Calling staff members and special guest hosts. You only need a phone and a prayer to join us.
Join Prayer Leaders every day at 8:00 PM Central Time for a live, interactive conference call to pray specifically for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Just dial 1-866-842-9557 and enter the code 900918#.
email: newsletter@greatercalling.org
phone: 866-678-4400
web: http://www.greatercalling.org
Greater Calling Inc. | PO Box 3588 | Santa Rosa | CA | 95404
Volunteer to be a Prayer Leader September 2005
Christians Called to Make Prayer a Priority
The Christian Emergency Network has announced that September 6th has been designated as a national day of prayer for the victims of the recent hurricane disaster. Greater Calling will be supporting this effort by providing continual conference call prayer throughout the day. In order to accommodate as many callers as possible, we need volunteers to give an hour (or more) of their time to act as the leaders for these calls. If you have a telephone and a heart for prayer, consider signing up as a prayer leader by clicking on the link below. You will be provided with training on how to host a call and you will receive a written guide to hosting a call. Thank you for your willingness to unite the nation in prayer during this important time.
Pray Over The Phone
By simply dialing an 800 number, you can join with others from all over the world to pray during our regularly scheduled Prayer Calls. These calls are FREE and are hosted by Greater Calling staff members and special guest hosts. You only need a phone and a prayer to join us.
Join Prayer Leaders every day at 8:00 PM Central Time for a live, interactive conference call to pray specifically for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Just dial 1-866-842-9557 and enter the code 900918#.
email: newsletter@greatercalling.org
phone: 866-678-4400
web: http://www.greatercalling.org
Greater Calling Inc. | PO Box 3588 | Santa Rosa | CA | 95404
KATRINA - What a Wonderful Idea
Just a quick update on the Katrina Response efforts. Yesterday in a Church service in Dallas where many refugees from the storm were brought to be ministered to and hear the Word, God was very much at work. After the service people were pulled aside for prayer and ministry. As a pastor was talking to one family they shared that though their needs were great, there greatest need was to be reunited with their family. They were separated during the storm. Many folks are in that same situation and the web site will have a log that people can go to in order to help located each other. However, as this family was receiving prayer to be reunited with their family, they heard someone scream out and turned to see the remainder of their family right there in the same place with them. They had been in the service together. Praise God. God will use this time of destruction for Kingdom building. Rise up Church. This is our time to shine Jesus shine!!
A Church in another state has taken on the task of going to local hotels to ask them to donate one or two rooms for the next 8 to 10 week to help displaced folks get a new start. At 5:00 yesterday, they had 200 rooms. What a wonderful idea!! We have a few people that we know are already filtering into the triangle area. Let's watch for them and join together to bless them in the name of Jesus!!
Go to www.katrinaresponse.net for updates and ways you might be able to help.
Praises, Linda Williams
Director, With Love From Jesus Ministries
Linda@withlovefromJesus.org
(919) 233-8010 ext. 11
A Church in another state has taken on the task of going to local hotels to ask them to donate one or two rooms for the next 8 to 10 week to help displaced folks get a new start. At 5:00 yesterday, they had 200 rooms. What a wonderful idea!! We have a few people that we know are already filtering into the triangle area. Let's watch for them and join together to bless them in the name of Jesus!!
Go to www.katrinaresponse.net for updates and ways you might be able to help.
Praises, Linda Williams
Director, With Love From Jesus Ministries
Linda@withlovefromJesus.org
(919) 233-8010 ext. 11
KATRINA - Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
PrayerNet Special: A Message from Eddie Smith
Some predict that as many as 10,000 may have died.
In the midst of the sadness, the good news is that hundreds of thousands of people who've been trapped below the poverty level all their lives, who've never dared dream of anything better, are flooding into our cities and churches. We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
We must pray that along with food, clothing and shelter, many will come to know the love of God and experience His eternal salvation. As you share what you have with them, share your faith. Speak out. Pray that many will break out of generational poverty and that a new, blessed generation will emerge for God's glory.
Some predict that as many as 10,000 may have died.
In the midst of the sadness, the good news is that hundreds of thousands of people who've been trapped below the poverty level all their lives, who've never dared dream of anything better, are flooding into our cities and churches. We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
We must pray that along with food, clothing and shelter, many will come to know the love of God and experience His eternal salvation. As you share what you have with them, share your faith. Speak out. Pray that many will break out of generational poverty and that a new, blessed generation will emerge for God's glory.
Sunday, September 04, 2005
KATRINA - Christian Community Development Association
Christian Community Development Association
“People Empowered by God Redeeming Their Communities”
Special Hurricane Katrina eNews
CCDA Ministries in the Atermath...
We have been inundated with calls asking how to help your partners in the New Orleans and Gulf Coast Area. As you know our 2002 CCDA Annual Conference was at the New Orleans Marriott on Canal Street. The success of that conference was largely due to our brothers and sisters at Desire Street Ministries, Urban Impact and Castlerock Church and Trinity Christian Community. We have been very concerned because we were not able to reach anyone by telephone until now. The following is the information we have received:
Desire Street
Desire Street – Mo Leverett and others are now in Atlanta trying to regroup. For information on how you can help and to donate visit their website at www.desirestreet.org .
Urban Impact/Castlerock Church
Urban Impact/Castlerock Church – They moved 70+ people first to the John Perkins Foundation in Jackson, Mississippi then to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. For information on how you can help and to donate visit their website at www.urbanimpact.org .
Trinity Christian Community
Today we spoke with Kevin Brown Trinity Christian Community. He is moving his family north but will try to go back to New Orleans next week. Kevin says their biggest need is money however volunteers will be needed in a few months. To make donations please send your donations to them at 1022 S. Purpera Avenue, Suite A, Gonzales, LA 70707.
Voice of Calvary
Voice of Calvary – we have not been able to make contact with Voice of Calvary in Jackson. For your information the web address is www.vocm.org however it has not been updated at this time.
John M. Perkins Foundation
While the devastation has not been as great in Jackson, Mississippi, our members there have been hard and are struggling. CCDA’s founder John Perkins reports that all the folks at John M. Perkins Foundation are safe but that they continue to be without power. Vera Mae Perkins has three brothers missing in New Orleans and one is on dialysis. Please pray she hears from them soon and that everyone is safe. Also, John has agreed to receive funds for CCDA groups affected by the hurricane. The Foundation has committed that it will distribute 100% of the funds to groups. The Foundation needs funds as well as the ministries they are serving. Your generous donations are desperately need at this time. For information on how you can help and to donate visit their website at www.jmpf.org .
Mendenhall Ministries. . .
Mendenhall Ministries is in need of financial donations as well as generators, and all kinds of batteries AA and larger. Can goods are also needed. Volunteers will be needed to do work projects in about two weeks or more when the electricity is restored. Send donations to them at P.O. Box 368, 309 Center Street, Mendenhall, Mississippi 39114.
Prayer Request
All are asking for prayer and that is number one on everyone’s list. Of course all ministries are in need of cash donations to help in the relief and rebuilding.
How You Can Help
If you have information about people who want to serve, provide resources or who need assistance, please let us know. We will get the information to over 3,000 people throughout the country. Contact Cheryl at cheryl@ccda.org.
“People Empowered by God Redeeming Their Communities”
Special Hurricane Katrina eNews
CCDA Ministries in the Atermath...
We have been inundated with calls asking how to help your partners in the New Orleans and Gulf Coast Area. As you know our 2002 CCDA Annual Conference was at the New Orleans Marriott on Canal Street. The success of that conference was largely due to our brothers and sisters at Desire Street Ministries, Urban Impact and Castlerock Church and Trinity Christian Community. We have been very concerned because we were not able to reach anyone by telephone until now. The following is the information we have received:
Desire Street
Desire Street – Mo Leverett and others are now in Atlanta trying to regroup. For information on how you can help and to donate visit their website at www.desirestreet.org
Urban Impact/Castlerock Church
Urban Impact/Castlerock Church – They moved 70+ people first to the John Perkins Foundation in Jackson, Mississippi then to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. For information on how you can help and to donate visit their website at www.urbanimpact.org
Trinity Christian Community
Today we spoke with Kevin Brown Trinity Christian Community. He is moving his family north but will try to go back to New Orleans next week. Kevin says their biggest need is money however volunteers will be needed in a few months. To make donations please send your donations to them at 1022 S. Purpera Avenue, Suite A, Gonzales, LA 70707.
Voice of Calvary
Voice of Calvary – we have not been able to make contact with Voice of Calvary in Jackson. For your information the web address is www.vocm.org
John M. Perkins Foundation
While the devastation has not been as great in Jackson, Mississippi, our members there have been hard and are struggling. CCDA’s founder John Perkins reports that all the folks at John M. Perkins Foundation are safe but that they continue to be without power. Vera Mae Perkins has three brothers missing in New Orleans and one is on dialysis. Please pray she hears from them soon and that everyone is safe. Also, John has agreed to receive funds for CCDA groups affected by the hurricane. The Foundation has committed that it will distribute 100% of the funds to groups. The Foundation needs funds as well as the ministries they are serving. Your generous donations are desperately need at this time. For information on how you can help and to donate visit their website at www.jmpf.org
Mendenhall Ministries. . .
Mendenhall Ministries is in need of financial donations as well as generators, and all kinds of batteries AA and larger. Can goods are also needed. Volunteers will be needed to do work projects in about two weeks or more when the electricity is restored. Send donations to them at P.O. Box 368, 309 Center Street, Mendenhall, Mississippi 39114.
Prayer Request
All are asking for prayer and that is number one on everyone’s list. Of course all ministries are in need of cash donations to help in the relief and rebuilding.
How You Can Help
If you have information about people who want to serve, provide resources or who need assistance, please let us know. We will get the information to over 3,000 people throughout the country. Contact Cheryl at cheryl@ccda.org.
Friday, September 02, 2005
KATRINA - "How Can We Help?"
In the Wake of Rising Waters – How We Can Help the Victims of Hurricane Katrina
With the flood waters that continue to rise in some areas that were devastated by the weekend ravage of Hurricane Katrina, the need is urgent for people everywhere to assist the various groups and help bring aid and relief to victims of the monster storm.
Certainly, an important part of the healing of last December's Tsunami in Southeast Asia, was the way groups and people from all over the world sent funding for help. Below is a list of some of the main organizations involved with relief efforts for the gulf states, should our readers want to partner with them.
Of course funding is needed for these efforts, but the Red Cross is also asking for blood donations as there is now a shortage.
The American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/
The Salvation Army: http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/
Samaritan's Purse: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
Operation Blessing: http://operationblessing.org/
As Believers, prayer is our first and best response, but just as important, is the physical help we can bring to others, Aimee Herd
With the flood waters that continue to rise in some areas that were devastated by the weekend ravage of Hurricane Katrina, the need is urgent for people everywhere to assist the various groups and help bring aid and relief to victims of the monster storm.
Certainly, an important part of the healing of last December's Tsunami in Southeast Asia, was the way groups and people from all over the world sent funding for help. Below is a list of some of the main organizations involved with relief efforts for the gulf states, should our readers want to partner with them.
Of course funding is needed for these efforts, but the Red Cross is also asking for blood donations as there is now a shortage.
The American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/
The Salvation Army: http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/
Samaritan's Purse: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
Operation Blessing: http://operationblessing.org/
As Believers, prayer is our first and best response, but just as important, is the physical help we can bring to others, Aimee Herd
KATRINA - Chicago Pastor Trapped
Dear Pastors:
A number of you have inquired about what you and your congregations can do to help the Katrina victims. On the home page of our www.ChicagoBaptist.com website we have some information and links to the North American Mission Board Disaster Relief webpages.
One of our own Chicago Metro pastors (James Pittman) and his family were among those trapped in a New Orleans attic on Monday. We hadn't heard anything from them until this morning (Friday). They were rescued and a friend of theirs is driving down to Louisiana to pick them up and bring them back to Chicago by Saturday evening.
Please keep on praying for the rest that need to be rescued.
Advancing God's Kingdom,
Keith Draper
Executive Director, Chicago Metro Baptist Association
A number of you have inquired about what you and your congregations can do to help the Katrina victims. On the home page of our www.ChicagoBaptist.com
One of our own Chicago Metro pastors (James Pittman) and his family were among those trapped in a New Orleans attic on Monday. We hadn't heard anything from them until this morning (Friday). They were rescued and a friend of theirs is driving down to Louisiana to pick them up and bring them back to Chicago by Saturday evening.
Please keep on praying for the rest that need to be rescued.
Advancing God's Kingdom,
Keith Draper
Executive Director, Chicago Metro Baptist Association
KATRINA - Hundreds Join in Conference Call Prayer for Katrina’s Victims
SANTA ROSA, CA (Sept. 2, 2005) –Greater Calling, a non-profit Christian teleconferencing ministry that helps believers pray, teach and reach beyond their immediate geographic area with teleconferencing technology, is connecting hundreds of people each day in a free prayer conference call for the needs of those affected by Hurricane Katrina.
By dialing a toll-free number and entering a special access code each evening at 8:00 PM ET, people can join with others around the world to pray for the needs of those affected by the devastation of Katrina. Members from America’s National Prayer Committee lead hundreds of participants for 30 minutes of interactive prayer. “We know that many people feel the need to pray for those being challenged during this tragedy and we are pleased to offer them a unique way to join together right from their own homes in prayer”, said Dave Butts, Chairman of the National Prayer Committee.
“We believe that prayer is the way to release God’s power and grace”, said Dana Simons, Co-Founder of Greater Calling Ministries, “and we are blessed to have the technology available to unite people in prayer through the use of the telephone”.
People interested in joining the National Prayer Committee in prayer for those affected by Katrina simply call 866-842-9557 and enter 900918 to join the call. More information can be found by visiting the Greater Calling website at www.greatercalling.org. Each call is limited to 500 callers, but calls will be held each night until September 8. As an alternative, people can sign up on the Greater Calling website for their own free conference call account that they can use to unite their own families or friends in small group prayer any time, night or day.
About Greater Calling and America’s National Prayer Committee
>Greater Calling is a division of Harvest Prayer Ministries, a non-profit 501c3 Christian organization dedicated to the advocacy of prayer. Harvest Prayer Ministries is headquartered in Terre Haute, Indiana. Please visit www.harvestprayer.com for more information.
>America’s National Prayer Committee is dedicated to providing collective servant leadership to the national prayer movement. Please visit www.nationalprayer.org for more information.
Greater Calling Ministries
Contact: Ronald Simons, VP Marketing
(707) 696-9572
rsimons@greatercalling.org
By dialing a toll-free number and entering a special access code each evening at 8:00 PM ET, people can join with others around the world to pray for the needs of those affected by the devastation of Katrina. Members from America’s National Prayer Committee lead hundreds of participants for 30 minutes of interactive prayer. “We know that many people feel the need to pray for those being challenged during this tragedy and we are pleased to offer them a unique way to join together right from their own homes in prayer”, said Dave Butts, Chairman of the National Prayer Committee.
“We believe that prayer is the way to release God’s power and grace”, said Dana Simons, Co-Founder of Greater Calling Ministries, “and we are blessed to have the technology available to unite people in prayer through the use of the telephone”.
People interested in joining the National Prayer Committee in prayer for those affected by Katrina simply call 866-842-9557 and enter 900918 to join the call. More information can be found by visiting the Greater Calling website at www.greatercalling.org. Each call is limited to 500 callers, but calls will be held each night until September 8. As an alternative, people can sign up on the Greater Calling website for their own free conference call account that they can use to unite their own families or friends in small group prayer any time, night or day.
About Greater Calling and America’s National Prayer Committee
>Greater Calling is a division of Harvest Prayer Ministries, a non-profit 501c3 Christian organization dedicated to the advocacy of prayer. Harvest Prayer Ministries is headquartered in Terre Haute, Indiana. Please visit www.harvestprayer.com for more information.
>America’s National Prayer Committee is dedicated to providing collective servant leadership to the national prayer movement. Please visit www.nationalprayer.org for more information.
Greater Calling Ministries
Contact: Ronald Simons, VP Marketing
(707) 696-9572
rsimons@greatercalling.org
KATRINA - Prayer & Care Go Hand-in-Hand
Here is another perspective on this critical challenge to us all:
By Inger J. Logelin Have You Thought? Out of prayer where we seek God‚s heart, comes His compassion compelling us to reach out to our neighbors.
"In the chaos left behind Hurricane Katrina˜called the worst storm ever to hit America's shores˜one response is emerging above all others: Prayer. Survivors are acknowledging God, thanking Him and asking for prayer. President Bush urged America to pray. As the storm approached, James Goll, author of The Lost Art of Intercession, asked others to "join in prayers of desperation in a desperate time!" He urged prayer for mercy. He said, "I strongly urge you to enter into identification through intercession and call forth the blood of Jesus to cleanse our nation of witchcraft and immorality . . ."
New Orleans was to be the site September 1-5 of one of the gay world‚s largest events, "Southern Decadence Day," a five-day, round-the-clock street party attracting approx. 120,000. Obviously, this event will not take place. Even the websites for the event have been shut down. In Mississippi the gambling industry has been hit hard, with every one of the offshore casinos in Mississippi destroyed.
In the horrific aftermath of the storm, the National Clergy Council and the Christian Defense Coalition have petitioned President Bush to declare a national day of prayer and fasting for the victims of the hurricane. Kathleen Blanco, governor of Louisiana asked residents to spend Wednesday, August 31 in prayer. The Associated Press reports Blanco saying, "That would be the best thing to calm our spirits and thank our Lord that we are survivors." Bloggers across the internet are calling on their readers to join them in prayer.
As the nation prays there are those rising up in Christ‚s name to meet desperate needs. Churches, grassroots organizations, and relief agencies are responding. World Relief, the relief and development agency that works in the U. S. and 24 countries around the world, will be equipping churches in the affected area with resources for clean up and rebuilding. World Vision is mobilizing urgently needed supplies from their regional warehouses. "We Can‚t Say No" On Wednesday the governor of Louisiana ordered the 25,000-40,000 in the Superdome and 200 other shelters to be evacuated to Houston‚s Astrodome. The Houston-headquartered ministry Somebody Cares finds itself in the right place at the right time. Doug Stringer, president of Somebody Cares America/International says, "How can we say no?" Stringer said, "Within hours after the entire evacuation from New Orleans was ordered, Somebody Cares had become one of the area's command central‚ locations for Hurricane Katrina relief. Because of our long-standing partnerships locally and globally, radio and television stations and other agencies give our number when others call for help."
One request coming from refugees from New Orleans said, "We‚ve got 30 people in three rooms, two babies and another baby with cancer. . . we don‚t have anything. The YMCA told us to call you." Another request was to help 175 people who needed a place to stay. Somebody Cares is determined to be the "hands and feet of Jesus in the midst of daily need˜physical, emotional, and spiritual˜in our communities, throughout the nation, and around the world." Stringer says, "Though the needs are magnified during times of crisis, this is what Somebody Cares does every day. . . "We can't say no, but we can't do it alone. We need help." Stringer is asking for prayer, finances for immediate needs, and then resources for recovery."
Transformation Moment - "The way to enjoy indestructible peace and joy is to determine:
1. To do whatever God commands, however difficult. 2. To endure whatever God appoints, however severe. 3. To obtain whatever God promises, however seemingly unattainable. 4. To die daily, however costly the crucifixion. 5. To love my enemies,‚ however misunderstood in this. 6. To pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks." Leonard Ravenhill in Revival God's Way
Thanks for your prayers during this time... Your servant in Christ, Steve Loopstra
Prayer Transformation Ministries
810 S. 7th St. w Minneapolis, MN 55415
Phone: 612-278-1714 w Fax: 612-278-1711
Email: PTM@prayertransformation.com
Web site: http://www.prayertransformation.com
To subscribe or unsubscribe, send email to PTM@prayertransformation.com
By Inger J. Logelin Have You Thought? Out of prayer where we seek God‚s heart, comes His compassion compelling us to reach out to our neighbors.
"In the chaos left behind Hurricane Katrina˜called the worst storm ever to hit America's shores˜one response is emerging above all others: Prayer. Survivors are acknowledging God, thanking Him and asking for prayer. President Bush urged America to pray. As the storm approached, James Goll, author of The Lost Art of Intercession, asked others to "join in prayers of desperation in a desperate time!" He urged prayer for mercy. He said, "I strongly urge you to enter into identification through intercession and call forth the blood of Jesus to cleanse our nation of witchcraft and immorality . . ."
New Orleans was to be the site September 1-5 of one of the gay world‚s largest events, "Southern Decadence Day," a five-day, round-the-clock street party attracting approx. 120,000. Obviously, this event will not take place. Even the websites for the event have been shut down. In Mississippi the gambling industry has been hit hard, with every one of the offshore casinos in Mississippi destroyed.
In the horrific aftermath of the storm, the National Clergy Council and the Christian Defense Coalition have petitioned President Bush to declare a national day of prayer and fasting for the victims of the hurricane. Kathleen Blanco, governor of Louisiana asked residents to spend Wednesday, August 31 in prayer. The Associated Press reports Blanco saying, "That would be the best thing to calm our spirits and thank our Lord that we are survivors." Bloggers across the internet are calling on their readers to join them in prayer.
As the nation prays there are those rising up in Christ‚s name to meet desperate needs. Churches, grassroots organizations, and relief agencies are responding. World Relief, the relief and development agency that works in the U. S. and 24 countries around the world, will be equipping churches in the affected area with resources for clean up and rebuilding. World Vision is mobilizing urgently needed supplies from their regional warehouses. "We Can‚t Say No" On Wednesday the governor of Louisiana ordered the 25,000-40,000 in the Superdome and 200 other shelters to be evacuated to Houston‚s Astrodome. The Houston-headquartered ministry Somebody Cares finds itself in the right place at the right time. Doug Stringer, president of Somebody Cares America/International says, "How can we say no?" Stringer said, "Within hours after the entire evacuation from New Orleans was ordered, Somebody Cares had become one of the area's command central‚ locations for Hurricane Katrina relief. Because of our long-standing partnerships locally and globally, radio and television stations and other agencies give our number when others call for help."
One request coming from refugees from New Orleans said, "We‚ve got 30 people in three rooms, two babies and another baby with cancer. . . we don‚t have anything. The YMCA told us to call you." Another request was to help 175 people who needed a place to stay. Somebody Cares is determined to be the "hands and feet of Jesus in the midst of daily need˜physical, emotional, and spiritual˜in our communities, throughout the nation, and around the world." Stringer says, "Though the needs are magnified during times of crisis, this is what Somebody Cares does every day. . . "We can't say no, but we can't do it alone. We need help." Stringer is asking for prayer, finances for immediate needs, and then resources for recovery."
Transformation Moment - "The way to enjoy indestructible peace and joy is to determine:
1. To do whatever God commands, however difficult. 2. To endure whatever God appoints, however severe. 3. To obtain whatever God promises, however seemingly unattainable. 4. To die daily, however costly the crucifixion. 5. To love my enemies,‚ however misunderstood in this. 6. To pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks." Leonard Ravenhill in Revival God's Way
Thanks for your prayers during this time... Your servant in Christ, Steve Loopstra
Prayer Transformation Ministries
810 S. 7th St. w Minneapolis, MN 55415
Phone: 612-278-1714 w Fax: 612-278-1711
Email: PTM@prayertransformation.com
Web site: http://www.prayertransformation.com
To subscribe or unsubscribe, send email to PTM@prayertransformation.com
KATRINA - EmergencyBlog.com
Check out EmergencyBlog.com and consider if you'd like to have one of your people participate there, to keep key information moving among the Christian city-networking communities.
We're affiliated with Mission America Coalition's CityReaching initiatives... particular the internet networking and communications. For instance, IndyChristian.com serves as a connecting/communicating point for all things going on in Indy (that we know of) regarding Katrina relief. You're welcome to get in touch with any of our city's contacts shown there, if it'll help come alongside of anything you're doing in your respective cities.
YBIC, Neil Cox, Editor, IndyChristian.com
"Connecting Driven Christians in the Racing Capital of the World"
We're affiliated with Mission America Coalition's CityReaching initiatives... particular the internet networking and communications. For instance, IndyChristian.com serves as a connecting/communicating point for all things going on in Indy (that we know of) regarding Katrina relief. You're welcome to get in touch with any of our city's contacts shown there, if it'll help come alongside of anything you're doing in your respective cities.
YBIC, Neil Cox, Editor, IndyChristian.com
"Connecting Driven Christians in the Racing Capital of the World"
KATRINA - Church-to-Church Relief
As soon as Hurricane Katrina hit, Leadership Network began receiving calls from churches around the country. Two questions have dominated these conversations:
"How can our church help another church that is engaged in direct Hurricane relief efforts?"
"Leadership Network has often connected us with other strong and innovative churches--could you now connect us with a church that could use our help during this difficult time?"
Katrina has left behind needs that are almost unimaginable in scope and complexity. Both the communities struck by the storm and, increasingly, the areas receiving the thousands of refugees face enormous challenges--ranging from immediate care, shelter and comfort to longer-term planning, assimilating and rebuilding.
A number of our client churches are already sending aid and volunteers through their denomination, the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and other very worthy organizations. This email is not intended to detract from any of that excellent work.
However, our Leadership Network team has also found numerous examples of churches that are directly and personally responding in a big way during this crisis. Many of these churches have the capacity to mobilize relief efforts on a very large scale.
For those of you who want to be involved in church-to-church work, we have compiled a list of churches that are directly undertaking various Hurricane relief activities--and have indicated they could use some help.
Individually and collectively, these churches are truly letting God's light shine brightly during some very dark days!
To facilitate the flow of information on both needs and opportunities, Leadership Network has established a special web page that we will update frequently over the coming weeks. As you will see, this page includes the names of the churches, descriptions of their relief efforts and contact information that will make it easy for you to get directly involved. These churches are spread across several states in the affected area, and each would welcome your assistance. Our intent is to share with you what is being done. . . and allow you and your church to respond accordingly.
To access this list, click here: http://www.leadnet.org/katrinarelief.asp
If your church is already engaged in significant hurricane relief work and would like to be considered for inclusion in this list, please email dave.travis@leadnet.org . We will get back to you promptly.
Christ is our healer, redeemer and rescuer. Our desire is to enable Christ's Body--the church--to respond in love with real help for our brothers and sisters.
Gratefully, The Leadership Network Team
"How can our church help another church that is engaged in direct Hurricane relief efforts?"
"Leadership Network has often connected us with other strong and innovative churches--could you now connect us with a church that could use our help during this difficult time?"
Katrina has left behind needs that are almost unimaginable in scope and complexity. Both the communities struck by the storm and, increasingly, the areas receiving the thousands of refugees face enormous challenges--ranging from immediate care, shelter and comfort to longer-term planning, assimilating and rebuilding.
A number of our client churches are already sending aid and volunteers through their denomination, the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and other very worthy organizations. This email is not intended to detract from any of that excellent work.
However, our Leadership Network team has also found numerous examples of churches that are directly and personally responding in a big way during this crisis. Many of these churches have the capacity to mobilize relief efforts on a very large scale.
For those of you who want to be involved in church-to-church work, we have compiled a list of churches that are directly undertaking various Hurricane relief activities--and have indicated they could use some help.
Individually and collectively, these churches are truly letting God's light shine brightly during some very dark days!
To facilitate the flow of information on both needs and opportunities, Leadership Network has established a special web page that we will update frequently over the coming weeks. As you will see, this page includes the names of the churches, descriptions of their relief efforts and contact information that will make it easy for you to get directly involved. These churches are spread across several states in the affected area, and each would welcome your assistance. Our intent is to share with you what is being done. . . and allow you and your church to respond accordingly.
To access this list, click here: http://www.leadnet.org/katrinarelief.asp
If your church is already engaged in significant hurricane relief work and would like to be considered for inclusion in this list, please email dave.travis@leadnet.org
Christ is our healer, redeemer and rescuer. Our desire is to enable Christ's Body--the church--to respond in love with real help for our brothers and sisters.
Gratefully, The Leadership Network Team
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
