Sisters, Brothers, Siblings,
I wanted to update you on our diocesan response to the storms that rolled through last week. Lake, Porter and La Porte Counties were the most affected areas in our diocese. I reached out to Episcopal Relief & Development (E,R & D) for their guidance. Once I received advice from them, I sent an email to the clergy and wardens of the Faith Communities in those three counties, which included the particular ways E, R & D have responded in similar situations. So much of the damage is downed trees and the loss of power and perishable food. Fortunately, no one in our faith communities were physically injured.
I then forwarded that email to the clergy serving in each of our faith communities, asking for their prayer and support for our siblings most affected and if there were persons in their faith communities in need of assistance, to please let me know by Monday, 17 August. I have been in communication Pastor Pamela at CEMP - Calumet Episcopal Ministry Partnership and received an update from her late on Monday evening. While many are working around the clock to address the crisis, some have said that cellphone service and electrical power may be out for the next week in some areas.
Many of our affected faith communities were not able to meet for worship on Sunday, so it will take some time to know how best to respond to those in need. Please continue to uphold in your prayer all those most severely affected by the storms and their aftermath.
I am sure there will be a need for financial assistance. If you would like to make a contribution to assist us in our response, please click the Diocesan Storm Response donate button on the homepage of our website.
I will do my best to keep you updated on our ongoing response.
Blessings during these challenging times,
Bishop Doug