A Statement from Bishop David Graves Regarding Catastrophic Storms in Alabama

“I am deeply saddened as I continue to hear of the rising death toll in Lee County. Yesterday’s storms were catastrophic and will leave a permanent mark on areas of our conference. I want to express my deepest sympathy to the families who lost a loved one in this tragedy. The raw pain you are experiencing is unfathomable. Several United Methodist pastors have responded to these families and were present last night at East Alabama Medical Center to provide comfort, prayer and pastoral support. They will continue to be available to families affected by the tornado.
 
Watoola UMC, located near Opelika, AL, received extensive damage from the storms. Our Montgomery-Opelika district disaster response director and team are assessing damage and will keep our conference leadership informed as they continue to contact our churches and clergy in the area.
 
As we draw close to Ash Wednesday, we are reminded of our human mortality and sorrow. The United Methodist Church has a great opportunity to serve our communities who are broken by this tragedy. We will respond to immediate and long-term needs in the days and weeks to come. Please join me in praying for those who were forever changed by yesterday’s storms.”
 
Bishop David Graves
Resident Bishop
Alabama-West Florida Conference