Dear Sisters and Brothers,
The effects of the ongoing disaster in Southeast Texas caused by hurricane Harvey are difficult to comprehend. While there are many accounts of the human suffering and the destruction of property and infrastructure, there is the continuing theme of the tremendous outpouring of care, concern, and sacrifice on the part of first responders, the military, community agencies, churches and civilian neighbors from near and far. We thank God for this reality.
To give a first hand perspective of how things stand, I share a message received from Rev. Zena McAdams, Interim Regional Minister of the Christian Church Southwest Region with her permission:
“Things are quite grim in far SE Texas today after three days of extreme rains. Beaumont is essentially stranded with the water system compromised. Port Arthur and Orange took a hard hit. Flooding is still occurring in Houston, but people are starting to be able to get around. Schools in Katy have been postponed for several weeks. Port Aransas has suspended schools in their area for this school year due to damage. The list is endless. Income and banking are now moving to the top of the list. Jobs and services are lost. I am so appreciative of all your donations and efforts to encourage WOC and CWS giving. Texas is resilient but this is going to be a very long haul. Please continue prayers for us.”
Week of Compassion (WOC) is the ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) that responds to disasters around the country and around the world. Please go to their website, www.weekofcompassion.org to donate to the Hurricane Harvey response. Thank you in advance for your prayers and support.
Eugene James, Regional Minister