Now, sisters and brothers, we want to tell you how God’s grace has been given to the
churches in Macedonia. In the midst of severe trial, their overflowing joy and deep poverty
have produced an abundant generosity.

(II Corinthians 8:1-2, The Inclusive Bible)

Most years, I can count on the November issue of the Call to be devoted to introducing the theme for the fall stewardship campaign, but there is more than adequate coverage of that in other places, so I thought it might be more productive to use this space to follow up on something that I said earlier this fall, and that you hear a lot from me: our role in disaster response, as a denomination, is to do long-term recovery. Well, that mission is just now getting geared up for a response to some major natural disasters, and here is what we know:

Puerto Rico –––

Electricity is out for the majority of the island and likely will be for months if not years. Much of the infrastructure will have to be replaced, including miles and miles of utility poles and lines. People will need lighting, a way to cook, temporary repairs to roofs (tarps) and then permanent repairs. The best way to help is to donate for items that are most needed. If you want to think of the purchasing that your donation will accomplish, this is the price list:

  • Solar Powered Lamp $ 12.00
  • Single-Burner Propane Stove $ 60.00
  • Propane Cylinder, cooking gas $ 60.00
  • Roof Tarps (20×25) $ 95.00
  • Church World Service Blankets for 5 families $
  • 250.00
  • Utility Pole – 40’ @ $6.50/ft. $ 260.00
  • Food Packages – 10 families for one month $ 1,100.00
  • Utility Poles for 1 mile $10,000.00

The UCC as a denomination sent an initial gift of $10,000 for relief and recovery. To give, go to www.ucc.org/disaster_puerto_rico and click on donate

Texas and Florida –––

Volunteers are needed to help homeowners rebuild. Tasks will include tearing out drywall, moving and cleaning personal possessions, roofing, gutting interiors, replacing insulation, siding, drywall repair and painting, flooring and other interior work Participants generally must be 16 or older and those under 18 will need adult supervision.

If you are interested in volunteering, let me know.

At the Iowa Conference Annual Meeting on October 7, $525 was raised, making a total of nearly $23,500 for disaster relief from the Conference. This is all made possible because we relate to one another in covenant. We respond with compassion and sensitivity. We show love because we know love. While many denigrate church institutions and structures, they enable us to respond quickly and efficiently to crises. So thank you for making this work possible. Amen

-Pastor Dave
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