The storms that have damaged areas across 10 states passed through our Alabama-West Florida Conference. Let us be in prayer for our congregations and families as we continue to receive news regarding the impact of these storms.
The Montgomery-Opelika District reports the storms were north of the district, although Ron Ball is checking with his district disaster coordinator as he monitors the fallout of last night's storm.
Montgomery-Prattville District reports Steve Reneau and Olivia Poole made it through the storm in Verbena. They are checking on their church members now.
Dothan District reports no damage at this time.
Marianna-Panama City District reports no damage although they are in communication with their churches.
Pensacola District is in conversation with Alan Gantzhorn, their district disaster coordinator. At this time, there is no damage to report.
Mobile District reports no damage although they continue to check with churches in their district.
Demopolis District reports all is well and they are monitoring the district process of reporting damage.
Baypines District has a report from Amelia Fletcher, our Conference Disaster Response Coordinator, saying, "Have monitored storms all afternoon. There have been no reports in the Baypines District which was under the gun this afternoon. Tim Trent in the Andalusia area, Rob Haynes in Baldwin County, and Charles Walters in the western area report an 'All Clear' as of 8:30 last night."
I have been in touch with some of the Bishops from other conferences that have been hurt by the storms and continue to receive word of the damage to churches and towns. Some ministers in areas that were damaged have not been reached. Let us remain in prayer and hope.
Almighty and Loving God, You are always present. Fulfill Your promise that You will not leave us comfortless but will come to us. Since we do not know what a day will bring forth, we place our faith in You asking that the storms of life may be calmed and we may offer ourselves in compassion and mercy to those most in need at this time. May Your mercy and Love be our light and our salvation in every difficult and overwhelming moment. Reform our compassionate service to others into obedience to You. We ask for the grace this week to be imitators of Christ as we stand firm in the Lord. Amen.
With Hope,
Paul L. Leeland