September 2, 2005
Our region recently has been deeply impacted by Hurricane Katrina. We all have seen photos of the Gulf Coast areas that have been overwhelmed by the devastation. Lesser seen are the results of the people who left the New Orleans area in mass exodus.
Southeastern Texas has become home to tens of thousands of displaced neighbors from Louisiana. These evacuees literally left with little more than the clothes on their back and few other personal items. Many thought they would simply leave the city for a day or a week and then return to their homes. However, they are now faced with the reality that all of their belongings, jobs, and routines are either destroyed or horribly displaced. There are hundreds if not thousands of stories of lost loved ones.
I pastor Alliance Bible Church in Baytown, Texas. Baytown is located just east of Houston. It is a blue collar, refinery town of about 70,000. We have been inundated with refugees who, in scenes I’d seemingly only before witnessed in films, have gathered whatever they may have had and traveled to our area in utter need.
I’d like to ask you to pray for our church and the other churches in my community. The city of Houston has brought in many thousands, particularly into the Astrodome. (I was at a meeting in Houston today where it is estimated that it will cost over 4 million dollars just to feed the folks in the Astrodome for a month—just one month!) Please pray for Houston and the response there. But would you also pray for Baytown and the other communities to the east of Houston where many of these folks have encamped.
Many are trying to live in hotels, knowing that they cannot afford to do so indefinitely. Many are in official and unofficial shelters. Many are still yet to come. Our church is attempting to strategically impact the plight of these folks by volunteering, gathering resources, making meals, and by potentially starting an “adopt a family program.” The needs, which arrived quite unexpectedly, are overwhelming. They are overwhelming to me—but not to our Lord.
I want to thank those who have shown interest already. Earlier today I received a call from Hillside Community Church in California, simply wanting to know how to help. I know many are curious as to what they can do. Here are some ideas:
First, please pray. Pray that we would have wisdom to know how to love and serve these folks in a way that brings great glory to God and displays His love and gospel in tangible ways. Pray for these folks who have lost everything and are utterly rootless.
Second, some have asked what they can do materially to help. CAMA already is involved in the situation, and they could use your support.
Third, if you want to come and volunteer, that would be an option. There is obviously little room to house people, however, volunteers are needed to sort, feed, and simply be a comfort to these folks.
Thanks for you encouragement, interest, and help. One of my favorite quotes is by C.S. Lewis: “Pain is God’s megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” May many hear the voice of the Savior these days. Thank you Alliance family for standing with us and holding us up in prayer.