September 19, 2008
One week after Hurricane Ike ravaged the Texas and Louisiana coastlines, Alliance first responders have visited several C&MA churches. Southwestern District superintendent Mark Searing commissioned Chaplain Paul Northcutt, who is a full-time police chaplain and the district’s emergency response “go-to guy,” and his wife, Blossom, into hurricane affected areas with Alliance churches.
At Alliance Bible Church in Baytown, the Northcutts found Pastor Jim Black and members of the church cleaning and making repairs. “We gave them cases of water and energy drinks as well as some snacks and canned fruit for themselves and for distribution in the area,” said Northcutt. “Some of these supplies were taken immediately to several church families and others in the community. We also gave the pastor a supply of $25 Wal-Mart Gift cards for him to pass out as needed in the community.”
Having an emergency service vehicle enabled the Northcutts to access Galveston, which is restricted to most people. They ministered to police officers and National Guard soldiers, passing out gospel tracts and praying with some of the officers and generally just trying to encourage them. “We found that they already had lots of resources in place; currently, there is very little that volunteers can do as far as helping with clean-up and rebuilding in Galveston.”
After finding that local and federal officials were on the scene in Beaumont, the Northcutts drove to Dayton and Liberty, two communities that were hard hit but had yet to receive any aid. “We met with police chief Pete Douzat in Dayton, who was very glad to see us,” Northcutt said. “After having prayer with the chief and other city employees, we left a large supply of water, energy drinks, and snacks at the fire department. Our visit there should be a good contact for future development of a possible C&MA church in that area.”
In Liberty the Northcutts ministered to many city employees, giving them the remaining supplies, Bibles, and other Christian literature and were invited to share a barbeque meal that the officers had prepared. “It was great,” Northcutt said. “After handshakes, hugs, and prayers we left this wonderful town—hopefully, they were more encouraged than they were when we arrived.”
Paul and Blossom Northcutt returned home for some rest and to restock supplies to distribute where there is need. The Alliance news team will provide regular updates. Volunteers are needed to cut numerous uprooted trees and to help with clean-up in many areas. To contribute to rebuilding efforts of C&MA churches or to find out how to volunteer, contact Mark Searing at(817) 561-0879, or e-mail [email protected].