October 17, 2017
Puerto Rico
Rev Javier Gómez, Puerto Rico District superintendent, reports that as of October 15, 90 percent of the island remains without power, 50 percent without water, and 75 percent without communications.
On behalf of the Alliance family in Puerto Rico, Javier thanks God for His provision and protection. There was no loss of life among the Alliance family. Of the 63 churches on the island (61 with buildings),
- 7 suffered severe damage,
- 21 suffered moderate damage, and
- 33 suffered little or no damage.
About one in five pastors’ homes were damaged; also, on average, 8–10 homes per congregation were damaged.
District personnel and relief coordinators continue to visit churches throughout the island. As these congregations reach out to their communities, please pray
- that God will sustain them as they rebuild their own homes and help care for those around them. In addition to being deprived of basic necessities, many feel overwhelmed and exhausted;
- for discernment for district and church leaders as they determine the most effective ways to meet the deepest needs of their communities.
CAMA is providing financial aid to assist with relief and recovery efforts for victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. You can provide immediate support by making a donation to CAMA Disaster Relief Puerto Rico.
California
Though progress has been made in containing the California fires, on October 16, the Central Pacific District reported that a fourth pastor lost his home in the Santa Rosa fire. Those whose homes were destroyed are grieving not only the loss of their structures but also photo albums, home videos, and other sentimental items that perished. As the fires continue to rage in some areas, residents–especially children–are afraid to go to sleep for fear their home may be next.
Please Pray
- for peace and comfort for all who have been affected by the fires;
- for protection for those whose homes remain at risk;
- that firefighters will remain safe and make significant progress in containing the fires;
- that winds will cease and rains will come to help contain the remaining blaze;
- that Alliance churches will continue to find tangible ways to show Christ’s love to their stricken communities.
Those wishing to help financially can do so by sending checks to the Central Pacific District at 715 Lincoln Ave., Woodland, CA 95695. Please designate checks to “Santa Rosa Fire.”