How we can help in those in great need
As Christians, we feel called to help those in great need; the devastation in Haiti, the unrest in Afghanistan, the disruption of Hurricane Ida and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are all on our hearts and in our prayers. Many of you have wondered aloud how can we respond in order to ease the world's suffering. First and foremost our Savior Jesus Christ, calls us to pray. In addition to our praying, there are ways the Episcopal Church is extending aid and resources to those who need it most. As you are able, we invite you to consider the following:
In Haiti, we bid your prayers for strong leadership to guide the country through its latest crises. Episcopal Relief and Development is one of the most dependable emergency response funds to help in Haiti.
In Afghanistan, Episcopal Migration Ministries offers several ways to support our Afghan allies and vulnerable women, children and families. In Jacksonville, Lutheran Social Services has programs in place to support incoming refugees: https://lssjax.org/programs/refugee-services/
Hurricane Relief, Episcopal Relief and Development has a Hurricane Relief Fund: https://support.episcopalrelief.org/hurricane-reli that helps dioceses reach vulnerable communities devastated by Hurricane Ida and other catastrophic storms.
* Throughout the month of September, St. Mary’s Sunday cash offering (the plate) will go to Episcopal Relief and Development and Relief efforts. If you would like to write a check to help, please make it payable to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and on the memo line designate ERD and place in the offering plate on Sunday, or you can mail it or bring it by the church office.
A Prayer for People Facing Great Uncertainty
God of the present moment, God who in Jesus stills the storm and soothes the frantic heart; bring hope and courage to all as we wait in uncertainty. Bring hope and peace with whatever lies ahead. Bring us courage to endure what cannot be avoided. For your will is health and wholeness; you are God, and we need you. Amen.
— Adapted from a New Zealand Prayer Book, page
Tags: Outreach / Happenings