Remembering

During the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the people of Grace Community UMC found many ways to serve in the rapidly changing landscape of need. I remember many of you gathering in the recently opened Youth Warehouse to help coordinate the different aspects of our response. We called the response "Operation Open Heart." Many of you worked to restore several cabins at the YMCA next door, including upgrading the roofing, electrical supply and climate control. The cabins were made ready provide housing. Originally, we assumed that the cabins were being prepared for people fleeing the storm, but as things progressed, we were informed by the authorities encouraging all those fleeing the storm to find lodging at one of the "official shelters." In discussion with the YMCA, we decided o finish the repairs so that the cabins would be ready to house groups of volunteers wanting to aid in the recovery process. Other groups communicated with the various shelters, gathering information about emerging needs and distributing the information to the congregation, inviting and enabling response. You brought food and clothes, you served in shelters, and you responded in so many other ways. You took action as the Body of Christ. I pray this storm will not be as severe, yet I ask you to prepare your hearts as we watch the storm.