“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
– Psalm 46:1

Dear friends,

As I write this email to you, Hurricane Florence is barreling toward the Carolinas, with more than 1 million people being told to evacuate as dangerous winds, storm surge and potentially catastrophic flooding are expected.

As a church, we’re standing ready to assist our neighbors through their recovery. Lutheran Disaster Response is coordinating with Lutheran Services Carolinas, Lutheran Family Services of Virginia and the synods in the hurricane’s path to respond to this disaster. In the midst of a hurricane season that is producing strong storms, Lutheran Disaster Response is also monitoring Hurricane Helene, Tropical Storm Olivia and Tropical Storm Isaac and is prepared to respond.

While the extent of the damage is not yet known, we stand ready to accompany recovering communities. Please give to Lutheran Disaster Response today. Your gifts ensure that our church will be able to provide help and hope for those whose homes have been devastated or who have been otherwise affected by hurricanes for years to come.

Stay connected to the latest events and our response to this and other disasters through our Facebook page. Join me in prayer and partnership, and use this bulletin insert in your congregation to help spread the word. Find additional resources for worship here.

With gratitude for your partnership,

The Rev. Daniel Rift
Director, ELCA World Hunger and Disaster Appeal
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America