From the floods in Houston to earthquakes in Ecuador and Japan, the United Methodist Church is bringing comfort and hope to those affected by tragedy. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is the United Methodist “first responders” when tragedy strikes.
Bishop Palmer, resident Bishop of the West Ohio conference, writes to the churches of the Conference:
“Major disasters have unleashed chaos across the world. Earthquakes in Japan and Ecuador have destroyed whole communities killing hundreds. According to Defense Minister, Ricardo Patino, Ecuador’s earthquake is the worst tragedy that has hit their country in 60 years . . . In Japan, an earthquake in the Kumamoto areas has resulted in 48 confirmed deaths with over 100,000 people in evacuation centers . . . The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is assessing the situation and working with the Methodist Church in Ecuador and other partners to develop a response to the devastation caused by the earthquake . . . UMCOR has also assessed the situation in Japan and concluded that the government and people of Japan are strongly and adequately responding to the recent earthquake. Please keep the people of Japan and Ecuador in your prayers.
Back home in the United States, Houston is still waiting for water to recede after major flooding. Seven people are confirmed killed with 1,200 people rescued and more rain in the forecast. The Texas Conference disaster coordinator is a member of the emergency response network for the city of Houston and will be advising UMCOR as to when cleanup supplies and personnel will be requested. UMCOR Early Response Teams in Texas are on standby, ready to respond when invited.”
How can we help? First and foremost, pray for the people and communities effected. Second, consider supporting the relief effort of UMCOR with a one-time gift (www.umcor.org, click on “donate”, and then click on “U.S. disaster response”, or “International disaster response”). If you do not have internet access, write a check to HPCUMC, and clearly mark UMCOR Disaster Relief. Together we make a difference; it is a privilege to serve in ministry with you!
In Christ,
Pastor Doug