The Texas District, LCMS is responding to support the relief efforts for three working incidents at this time.
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West, Texas
Pastor Canion recently sent word on May 20, 2013
Dear Christ followers,
As West prepares to take the next step in the recovery process we also pause to our prayers for those affected by the storms from here to Oklahoma City. We ask that God would continue to be glorified even in the midst of tragedy.
In an effort to keep everyone informed I will try to keep as many people updated as possible concerning recovery efforts in West. Some of the state and national government agencies have moved their personnel to storm ravaged lands north of here. From the Lutheran side of things I will be joined by members of Immanuel, Temple this Saturday morning to begin some light lawn care around the town. Pastor Phil, the associate from First Baptist Church of West, is working with me personally to identify local people who might benefit from some lawn care. Additional help will come from the Long Term Recovery will also lend help in identification. We hope to bring a peaceful presence to the area to lend the idea that there are people willing to help out down the road.
Looking to the future June 15-June 23 is “Loving West” week. The Southern Baptists are asking us to partner with them in their clean-up of people’s personal property. Next Tuesday demolition crews will start on many of the homes, we have been asked to help out when the material has been removed from each property. This means that we will need lawn mowers, weed eaters, rakes, etc. to get the properties closer to the point where owners can think about rebuilding. If you would like to make it a weekend trip arrangements can be made if we know ahead of time. Workers will need to wear heavy shoes, long sleeves, and gloves (dust masks are recommended).
Feel free to contact me directly if you would like more information. 254-644-9664
Blessings,
Pastor Matthew Canion
St. Paul, Waco
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Granbury, Texas
The Granbury Tornado Recovery is underway. Rev. John Austin, pastor of Our Savior, Granbury, and his congregation, are working in the neighborhoods that were destroyed. Long term efforts are now underway. If you are able to assist in this effort, contact Pastor Austin at the church office phone number (817) 573-5011 or email Pastor Austin at oslc1000@sbcglobal.net.
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Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City has a long recovery process ahead. Reports are coming in about the situation. Things are still fluid at this time. The following is what I have so far:
As of Monday evening (May 20, 2013), the Oklahoma District President, Rev. Barrie Henke, who lives just north of Oklahoma City, wrote the following:
Sunday in Edmond – received minor damage since the cloud formed over Holy Trinity then moved eastward before touching down. This is the same storm that went through Luther, Wellston, and Carney. No word from the Wellston folk as to damage.
Sunday in Shawnee – This is the storm that pushed through Norman then hit Shawnee and surrounding area. I talked with Rev. Lewis Walters yesterday and he said the tornado missed the church. He had no new report on any damage sustained to his members. The report did show extensive damage in a mobile home park and other areas.
Monday in Moore – as of this afternoon (Monday @ 5 PM) Rev. Mark Bersche reported that his daughter was in one of the schools leveled, but she is safe. He has been unable to assess damage since he is virtually trapped in his home because of debris filled streets. He believed that the church was OK since it seemed to hit south of the church @ 12th & Santa Fe, however the tornado skimmed past their residential street. He has no phone service at this point but is able to get through an occasional text message. With schools, businesses and homes devastated, I am sure that some members of St. John’s have been affected by this powerful tornado!
What can we do? Pray for the well-being and comfort of those who are victims of the storm. Wait patiently until there is an assessment of the damage and the need. The LCMS Disaster Relief is waiting to put “boots on the ground” when a proper assessment is made. Various other districts have contacted me about “chainsaw” crews.
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When asked, "What can we do?" the response depends upon the situation.
Pastor Canion is now looking for volunteers for some specific work.
Pastor Austin is gather a list of volunteer resources for long term recovery.
President Henke is asking for your prayers and they are setting up volunteer teams for work yet to be determined. The website for contact information is http://holytrinityedmond.org/
Prayers for each of these incidents, for those recovering and for those serving are greatly welcomed!
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Financial donations are alway appreciated by the people recovering and by the people serving in disaster relief situations. There are "gaps" of income that need to be addressed. Bills to be paid, food and clothing to be purchased, and deductibles to be paid. While there are many agency through which you may donate, the Texas District works first with congregations and members, then moves into communities through local pastors and congregations. 100% of the dollars given are applied to the disaster relief effort.
You may donate to any one or all of the recovery efforts as you choose by clicking here.
Thank you for your prayers and for your donation!
