Witness in the Aftermath
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I will bind up the injured...
-- Ezekiel 34:16
The love of God is overflowing in the wake of the horrific tornadoes Saturday.
Today all along the path of the storm, neighbors from near and far are working in the midst of twisted metal and gnarled trees and crashed houses to bring comfort and help and hope.
Visiting in Yazoo City, I was deeply touched by the witness of the Clark family, members of First United Methodist Church. Mrs. Clark was at work at United Methodist Senior Services and called a warning to her husband at home. He sought refuge in the bathroom of their home, praying, as the tornado approached, damaging their home beyond the possibility of repair.
The Clark's grandson ran to find his grandfather, jumping and climbing over fallen trees and debris. Finding Mr. Clark safe, he ran on to help others. It took Mrs. Clark four hours to get home and to see her husband alive and well.
Four people died in neighboring homes.
Bill Poole, pastor of First UMC, experienced Katrina as pastor of First UMC in Lucedale. He now finds himself again experiencing the eye of a mighty storm.
By telephone, I heard other stories today -- of United Methodists responding, clearing debris and tarping roofs and bringing help, and of pastors finding parishioners and offering assistance and comfort.
In times like this, it is good to be connected. On behalf of all who are impacted, I thank you for your prayers, your efforts and your gifts.
The search and rescue phase of this disaster is ending. The response phase is beginning. Clean-up and tarping teams will continue to be needed for several weeks. The recovery phase will extend over the next year and beyond. To volunteer and to access information on the recovery effort, call 601-354-0515, ext. 21 or go to www.mississippi-umc.org .
Tomorrow at noon our conference disaster response leaders will gather with experienced UMCOR staff from Mississippi and beyond. Thank you for your prayers as we move forward together.
With gratitude for each of you,
Hope Morgan Ward |
